HS Code:
The 'Other Lactams' category, classified under HS Code 2933.79, includes a range of cyclic amides (lactams) that are not specifically categorized under other subheadings. Lactams are key chemical compounds used primarily in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and polymers such as nylon. This category encompasses derivatives and related compounds that serve as intermediates in organic synthesis. Due to their critical role in industrial and medical applications, the trade of other lactams is significant in global markets, driven by demand in the pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing sectors.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in pharmaceutical applications
Increased production of lactam-based intermediates for antibiotics and other drugs drives trade volume, particularly in Asia-Pacific and North America.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable production methods
Manufacturers are adopting green chemistry practices, influencing trade patterns by prioritizing suppliers with eco-friendly certifications.
2020-2022
Rising competition from generic producers
Increased exports from countries like India due to cost-effective production, impacting market shares of traditional exporters like Germany.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced provisional anti-dumping duties on certain lactam imports from China to protect domestic manufacturers from unfairly priced imports.
March 2023
Expected to reduce Chinese market share in the EU, potentially benefiting other exporters like India and the US.
A new phase of the US-China trade agreement includes reduced tariffs on chemical intermediates, including other lactams, to ease bilateral trade tensions.
January 2023
Likely to boost Chinese exports to the US, increasing overall trade volume in the category.
Several Indian chemical companies announced investments in lactam production facilities to cater to growing domestic and international demand.
October 2022
Strengthens India's position as a key exporter, potentially challenging China's dominance in the market.