HS Code:
Lysergic acid and its salts (HS Code: 293963) are chemical compounds primarily used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of ergot alkaloids and certain psychoactive substances like LSD. Due to its potential for misuse, this category is heavily regulated under international drug control treaties such as the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Trade in lysergic acid and its salts is limited to licensed entities for medical and research purposes, with strict monitoring by national and international authorities.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
6.5%
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries for non-medical imports)
Lowest Rate
0% (under specific free trade agreements for medical research purposes)
Increased demand for research purposes
Rising interest in psychedelic research for mental health treatments has led to a slight increase in controlled trade for academic and clinical studies.
2021-2022
Tightening of international regulations
Stricter enforcement of trade controls has reduced illicit trade but also created delays for legitimate medical supply chains.
2020-2022
Shift towards synthetic alternatives
Development of alternative compounds with similar therapeutic effects is gradually reducing reliance on lysergic acid derivatives.
2019-2022
The United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs issued updated guidelines for the trade of lysergic acid, emphasizing digital tracking of shipments to prevent diversion to illicit markets.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters but enhanced transparency in global trade.
Switzerland, a key exporter, increased its export quota for lysergic acid for psychiatric research following successful clinical trials on psychedelic therapies.
July 2022
Boosted trade volume by 10% for research purposes in key markets like the US and EU.
The US Drug Enforcement Administration introduced stricter vetting for imports of lysergic acid and its salts, citing concerns over potential misuse.
October 2021
Reduced import volumes by 5% in the US market, affecting research timelines.