HS Code:
Hypophosphorous acid 50% (phosphinic acid) (CAS No. 6303-21-5) falls under HS Code 2811.19.61, which covers other inorganic acids. It is a colorless, low-melting compound primarily used as a reducing agent in chemical synthesis, electroplating, and as an antioxidant in pharmaceuticals and polymer production. It is also utilized in the manufacture of hypophosphite salts and other industrial applications.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and ITC Trade Map
$60 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
17% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
13% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in pharmaceutical applications
Increased production and trade volume due to its use as an antioxidant and intermediate in drug synthesis
2021-2022
Rising environmental regulations
Stricter controls on production and transportation due to environmental and safety concerns, potentially increasing costs
2020-2022
Shift toward sustainable chemical processes
Development of greener synthesis methods may reduce demand for traditional hypophosphorous acid in some applications
2022
The European Union updated REACH regulations, imposing stricter documentation and safety data requirements for hypophosphorous acid imports.
January 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially affecting trade volumes from non-EU countries.
Major Chinese manufacturers announced plans to expand hypophosphorous acid production to meet growing global demand.
March 2022
Likely to reinforce China's dominance in the market, potentially lowering global prices due to increased supply.
The United States reviewed tariffs on certain chemical imports, including hypophosphorous acid, under Section 301 measures against China.
September 2022
Potential increase in costs for US importers, which may shift sourcing to other countries like India or Germany.