HS Code:
O,O-Dimethyl-S-methylcarbamoylmethyl phosphorodithioate, commonly known as Malathion, is an organophosphate insecticide used primarily in agriculture to control a wide range of pests on crops such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. It is also used in public health programs to control mosquitoes and other vectors of disease. Malathion works by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase in insects, leading to their paralysis and death. Due to its effectiveness and relatively low toxicity to humans when used properly, it remains a widely used pesticide globally, though its use is regulated due to environmental and health concerns. The HS Code for Malathion falls under 293090 (organosulfur compounds) or more specifically under pesticide classifications depending on the countryโs tariff schedule.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $250 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and industry reports
$70 million USD
28% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$50 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$45 million USD
18% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic pesticide industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like NAFTA/USMCA or EU trade blocs)
Shift towards bio-pesticides and organic farming
Decreasing demand for chemical pesticides like Malathion in developed markets, pushing manufacturers to innovate or diversify
2020-2022
Increased demand in developing agricultural economies
Growing agricultural sectors in countries like India and Brazil are driving higher imports and production of cost-effective pesticides like Malathion
2018-2022
Regulatory tightening in key markets
Stricter environmental and health regulations in the EU and North America are reducing usage and trade volumes, with some countries phasing out Malathion
2019-2023
The European Union has imposed stricter regulations on the use of Malathion due to concerns over its impact on non-target species and potential human health risks, leading to reduced imports and usage.
June 2022
Significant reduction in trade volume to EU countries, pushing exporters to focus on Asian and Latin American markets
India has ramped up domestic production of Malathion to reduce dependency on imports and support its agricultural sector under the 'Make in India' initiative.
March 2023
Increased export potential from India, potentially reshaping global supply chains for Malathion
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completed a re-evaluation of Malathion, affirming its safety for specific uses with updated application guidelines to minimize environmental impact.
September 2021
Stabilized demand in the US market, though with stricter compliance costs for manufacturers and users