HS Code:
Methylchloroform, also known as 1,1,1-Trichloroethane (HS Code: 2903.19), is a chlorinated hydrocarbon primarily used as an industrial solvent for cleaning and degreasing. Historically, it was widely used in various applications, including metal cleaning, adhesives, and aerosol propellants. However, due to its ozone-depleting properties, its production and use have been heavily restricted under the Montreal Protocol since the 1990s. Today, trade in Methylchloroform is limited to specific exemptions for essential uses or laboratory purposes in many countries, with strict regulations governing its handling and disposal.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $10 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, World Customs Organization
$3.5 million USD
35% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$2.2 million USD
22% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.8 million USD
18% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$1.5 million USD
15% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.0 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries for environmental protection)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for essential use exemptions)
Declining global demand due to environmental regulations
Significant reduction in production and trade as alternatives like aqueous cleaning solutions and other solvents replace Methylchloroform
2015-2022
Shift to niche applications under exemptions
Limited trade persists for laboratory and analytical uses, with stringent oversight
2018-2022
Increased focus on recycling and disposal
Trade patterns now include services for safe disposal and recycling of remaining stockpiles
2020-2022
Several countries reported progress in phasing out remaining stockpiles of Methylchloroform, with updated guidelines for exemptions issued by the Ozone Secretariat.
January 2023
Further reduction in global trade expected as exemptions are tightened.
The European Union introduced higher environmental taxes on ozone-depleting substances, including Methylchloroform, to discourage use even under exemptions.
July 2022
Increased costs for importers, likely leading to reduced trade volumes in the EU.
The US Environmental Protection Agency cracked down on illegal imports of Methylchloroform, imposing fines and stricter border controls.
March 2022
Reduced illegal trade and increased compliance costs for legitimate importers.