HS Code:
Isopropyl (3-chlorophenyl)carbamate, commonly known as Chlorpropham (CAS No. 101-21-3), is a chemical compound classified under HS Code 2924.29.43. It is primarily used as a herbicide and plant growth regulator, particularly to inhibit sprouting in stored potatoes. Chlorpropham belongs to the carbamate family and is applied as a post-harvest treatment to prevent potato tubers from sprouting during storage. The global trade of this chemical is influenced by agricultural demands, regulatory frameworks surrounding pesticide use, and environmental concerns.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, supplemented by industry reports
$15 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$10 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$8 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$4 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-US trade deals)
Declining demand in Europe due to regulatory bans
European countries are phasing out Chlorpropham due to health and environmental concerns, leading to reduced trade volumes and a shift towards alternative sprouting inhibitors.
2020-2022
Rising demand in Asia-Pacific for agricultural productivity
Countries like India and China are increasing imports to support large-scale potato storage, driving trade growth in the region.
2021-2023
Development of eco-friendly alternatives
Innovation in bio-based and less toxic sprouting inhibitors is reducing the market share of Chlorpropham globally.
2022-2023
The European Union officially banned the use of Chlorpropham as a sprouting inhibitor in 2020, citing potential risks to human health and the environment.
October 2020
Significant reduction in trade volume within and to the EU, pushing exporters to focus on other regions like Asia and Latin America.
The U.S. and Canada are reviewing the safety profile of Chlorpropham, with potential for tighter restrictions or maximum residue limits (MRLs) on treated potatoes.
March 2023
Uncertainty in the market could lead to reduced exports from major producers if stricter regulations are implemented.
Chinese manufacturers have ramped up production of Chlorpropham to meet domestic and export demand, undercutting prices from Western producers.
July 2022
Increased competition in the global market, benefiting importing countries with lower costs but challenging established exporters.