HS Code:
Linseed oil and its fractions (HS Code: 1515.11 and 1515.19) are derived from the seeds of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum). Linseed oil is primarily used in industrial applications such as the production of paints, varnishes, and linoleum, as well as in food-grade applications for its high omega-3 fatty acid content. The category includes both crude linseed oil (1515.11) and refined linseed oil and its fractions (1515.19). Global trade in linseed oil is influenced by agricultural production of flaxseed, industrial demand, and health trends promoting its use as a nutritional supplement.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 250 million
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 180 million
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 120 million
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic oilseed industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade or USMCA)
Rising demand for organic and non-GMO linseed oil
Increased production and trade in organic-certified linseed oil, particularly in European and North American markets, driving premium pricing and supply chain adjustments.
2021-2023
Growth in industrial applications
Sustained demand for linseed oil in eco-friendly paints and coatings due to global push for sustainable materials, boosting trade volumes in industrial-grade oil.
2020-2022
Fluctuations in flaxseed production due to climate variability
Unpredictable weather patterns in major producing regions like Canada and Russia have led to supply chain disruptions and price volatility.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring detailed labeling and certification for linseed oil imports to ensure traceability and compliance with food safety standards.
March 2023
Exporters to the EU market face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant suppliers while benefiting those with established certification processes.
The Indian government announced subsidies and protective tariffs to support local flaxseed production, aiming to reduce reliance on imported linseed oil.
January 2023
This policy may reduce import volumes of linseed oil into India, affecting major exporters like Belgium and Germany, while boosting domestic processing capacity.
A growing trend in plant-based diets has led to increased incorporation of linseed oil in vegan food products as a source of omega-3 fatty acids.
September 2022
This has driven up trade volumes for food-grade linseed oil, particularly to markets with high vegan product consumption like the United States and Germany.