HS Code:
Mixtures of methylsulfanilycarbamate, sodium salt (Asulam sodium salt) (CAS No. 2302-17-2) and application adjuvants, classified under HS subheading 3808.93.15, are primarily used as herbicides in agricultural applications. Asulam sodium salt is a systemic herbicide effective against a range of broadleaf weeds and grasses, often used in crops like sugarcane, alfalfa, and pastures. Application adjuvants are substances added to enhance the efficacy of the herbicide by improving its adhesion, penetration, or distribution on target plants. This category falls under the broader HS chapter 38, which covers miscellaneous chemical products, specifically pesticides and herbicides. Global trade in this category reflects demand in agricultural economies and is influenced by regulatory frameworks, environmental concerns, and advancements in sustainable farming practices.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN 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
$7 million USD
14% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-US or within ASEAN)
Shift towards sustainable agriculture
Increased scrutiny and regulatory restrictions on chemical herbicides like Asulam are pushing demand for bio-based or less toxic alternatives, potentially reducing trade volumes in some regions.
2021-2023
Rising demand in emerging markets
Growing agricultural sectors in countries like Brazil and India are driving higher imports of effective herbicides to boost crop yields, increasing trade volumes.
2020-2022
Technological advancements in adjuvants
Innovations in adjuvant formulations to enhance herbicide efficiency and reduce environmental impact are creating new market segments and influencing trade patterns.
2022
The European Union conducted a reassessment of Asulam sodium salt under its pesticide regulation framework, leading to stricter usage guidelines and potential market access challenges for exporters.
March 2023
Exporters to the EU may face reduced demand or need to adapt formulations to comply with new environmental standards.
The US Environmental Protection Agency approved a new range of application adjuvants designed to reduce herbicide drift, boosting market opportunities for compliant products under HS 3808.93.15.
July 2022
Increased export potential to the US market for manufacturers meeting the new standards.
Brazil's agricultural ministry approved expanded use of Asulam-based herbicides for sugarcane crops to combat invasive weeds, driving import demand.
September 2022
Significant growth in exports to Brazil, particularly from the US and China.