HS Code:
Methanesulfonyl chloride (CAS No. 124-63-0), classified under HS Code 2904.10.50, is a colorless to pale yellow liquid used primarily as a reagent in organic synthesis. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals. It is highly reactive and often employed for introducing the methanesulfonyl group into molecules. Due to its corrosive nature and toxicity, it requires careful handling and is subject to strict regulatory controls in many countries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database, ITC Trade Map
$60 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
17% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$15 million USD
10% 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)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in pharmaceutical sector
Increased production and trade volumes driven by drug development needs, particularly in Asia-Pacific
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable production methods
Manufacturers are adopting greener processes to comply with environmental regulations, slightly increasing production costs
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions
Trade flows affected by export restrictions and port delays, leading to price volatility
2022
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on the import and use of Methanesulfonyl chloride, requiring detailed safety data sheets and compliance with REACH standards.
June 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant countries.
Major Chinese manufacturers announced plans to expand production capacity for Methanesulfonyl chloride to meet rising global demand, particularly from the pharmaceutical sector.
March 2023
Likely to reinforce China's dominant position in the market, potentially lowering global prices due to economies of scale.
The United States temporarily waived tariffs on certain chemical imports, including Methanesulfonyl chloride, to support domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing amid supply chain challenges.
September 2022
Boosted imports from key suppliers like China and India, stabilizing supply for US manufacturers.