HS Code:
Mixtures of caprolactam disulfide (CAS No. 23847-08-7) with an elastomer binder of ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) and ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), combined with dispersing agents, fall under HS subheading 3812.10.50. This category pertains to prepared rubber accelerators, specifically chemical mixtures used in the vulcanization process of rubber to improve its strength, elasticity, and durability. These mixtures are critical in industries such as automotive (for tire manufacturing), industrial rubber products, and other applications requiring enhanced rubber performance. Caprolactam disulfide acts as a sulfur donor, aiding in cross-linking during vulcanization, while the elastomer binders and dispersing agents ensure uniform distribution and compatibility with rubber compounds.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and ITC Trade Map
$15 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$8 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$6 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
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 automotive sector
Increased production of tires and rubber components drives demand for rubber accelerators, especially in emerging markets like India and Southeast Asia.
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable alternatives
Pressure to develop eco-friendly vulcanization agents due to environmental regulations is pushing R&D investments, potentially affecting traditional caprolactam disulfide mixtures.
2022-2023
Supply chain disruptions
Post-COVID supply chain bottlenecks and raw material shortages have led to price volatility and delayed deliveries, impacting trade volumes.
2020-2022
The European Union updated its REACH regulations to impose stricter limits on sulfur-containing compounds in rubber accelerators, requiring manufacturers to provide detailed safety data sheets.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU; potential market entry barriers for smaller producers.
China introduced subsidies for chemical exporters, including rubber accelerator manufacturers, to boost global market share amidst trade tensions.
January 2023
Likely to increase China's dominance in trade volume, potentially leading to anti-dumping investigations by other countries.
The United States granted temporary tariff waivers on certain rubber chemicals, including those under HS 3812.10.50, to mitigate supply shortages in the domestic market.
June 2022
Boosted imports from key partners like South Korea and Japan, supporting US rubber manufacturing industries.