HS Code:
β-Naphthol, also known as 2-Naphthol (HS Code: 290715), is an organic compound and a derivative of naphthalene. It is widely used as an intermediate in the production of dyes, pigments, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Additionally, it serves as a building block in the synthesis of various chemical compounds, including antioxidants and rubber chemicals. The global trade of β-Naphthol is influenced by industrial demand in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing, with key production hubs in Asia and significant consumption in North America and Europe.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$60 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$12 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$10 million USD
7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
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 like EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in pharmaceutical intermediates
Increased production and trade volume driven by the need for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and specialty chemicals
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable production methods
Adoption of greener synthesis processes to comply with environmental regulations, slightly increasing production costs but improving market access in regulated regions like the EU
2020-2022
Rising competition from bio-based alternatives
Potential reduction in demand for traditional β-Naphthol in some applications as industries explore eco-friendly substitutes
2022
China introduced stricter export controls on chemical intermediates, including β-Naphthol, to prioritize domestic supply for its growing pharmaceutical sector.
March 2023
Potential supply chain disruptions for importing countries, leading to price increases and diversification of supply sources.
The European Union updated REACH regulations, imposing stricter documentation and safety requirements for β-Naphthol imports.
January 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant suppliers.
Several Indian chemical manufacturers announced investments to expand β-Naphthol production capacity to meet rising global demand.
July 2022
Strengthening India's position as a key supplier, potentially lowering global prices due to increased supply.