HS Code:
N-Butyl-N-ethyl-α,α,α-trifluoro-2,6-dinitro-p-toluidine, commonly known as Benfluralin (CAS No. 1861-40-1), falls under HS subheading 2921.43.90. It is a selective pre-emergent herbicide used primarily in agriculture to control annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in crops such as soybeans, cotton, and peanuts. Benfluralin belongs to the dinitroaniline chemical family and works by inhibiting cell division in weed seedlings. Due to its chemical properties and specific agricultural applications, it is subject to strict regulatory oversight in many countries concerning its production, trade, and usage.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
Estimated data based on UN Comtrade and industry reports
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA or EU trade pacts)
Increasing demand for sustainable agriculture
Growing scrutiny and restrictions on chemical herbicides like Benfluralin due to environmental and health concerns, leading to reduced usage in some regions.
2021-2023
Shift towards bio-based alternatives
Emerging bio-herbicides and organic farming practices are reducing the market share of synthetic herbicides, impacting trade volumes.
2022
Growth in agricultural output in developing countries
Increased demand for cost-effective herbicides like Benfluralin in countries with expanding agricultural sectors, such as India and Brazil.
2020-2023
The European Union initiated a reassessment of Benfluralin due to concerns over potential environmental persistence and toxicity, which may lead to stricter regulations or a phased ban.
March 2023
Potential reduction in exports to EU markets and increased compliance costs for producers.
A major agrochemical manufacturer in China announced the opening of a new facility for producing Benfluralin, aiming to meet rising demand in Asia-Pacific markets.
July 2022
Increased supply capacity may lower global prices and boost China's export share.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released updated guidelines on the safe use of dinitroaniline herbicides, including Benfluralin, emphasizing reduced application rates to minimize environmental impact.
October 2022
May lead to reduced domestic usage in the U.S. but unlikely to impact export volumes significantly.