HS Code:
o-Paraquat dichloride, classified under HS Code 293339, is a non-selective herbicide widely used in agriculture to control weeds in various crops. It is a quick-acting, contact herbicide that is particularly effective in tropical and subtropical regions. Due to its toxicity, its use is heavily regulated or banned in several countries, impacting global trade patterns. The product falls under the broader category of heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atoms, often used in pesticide formulations.
Total Trade Volume
USD 320 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 150 million
46.9% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 60 million
18.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 40 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
USD 30 million
9.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 20 million
6.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain African countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-India FTA for specific partners)
Rising demand in developing agricultural economies
Increased exports to countries in Southeast Asia and Latin America due to reliance on cost-effective weed control solutions
2021-2022
Regulatory bans and restrictions in developed markets
Significant decline in trade to regions like the European Union, where paraquat is banned since 2007, shifting focus to alternative herbicides
2020-2022
Shift towards sustainable agriculture
Growing preference for bio-herbicides and integrated weed management practices, reducing long-term demand for paraquat
2022
China, the largest exporter of o-Paraquat dichloride, introduced stricter export controls to align with international safety standards, requiring additional certifications for shipments.
March 2023
Potential short-term supply chain disruptions but long-term improvement in product safety perception.
Countries like Thailand and Vietnam have expanded bans or restrictions on paraquat use, citing health risks to farmers and environmental damage.
January 2023
Reduced market access for exporters, prompting a shift to alternative markets in Africa and South America.
Major agrochemical companies are investing in research for less toxic formulations of paraquat or alternative herbicides to meet regulatory demands.
June 2023
Potential for market recovery if safer alternatives gain regulatory approval, though trade volumes may remain constrained in the interim.