HS Code:
Poly(phenol-co-formaldehyde-co-4-(1,1-dimethylethyl)phenol) (CAS No. 28453-20-5) falls under HS Code 3909.40.00, which covers phenolic resins in primary forms. This specific compound is a type of phenolic resin modified with 4-(1,1-dimethylethyl)phenol, commonly used in industrial applications such as adhesives, coatings, laminates, and molding compounds due to its excellent thermal stability, chemical resistance, and mechanical properties. It is a niche chemical product within the broader category of synthetic resins and is primarily utilized in manufacturing sectors requiring high-performance materials.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD (for phenolic resins under HS 3909.40.00)
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$350 million USD
29.2% 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
Stable
$120 million USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$100 million USD
8.3% 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 like USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in automotive and construction sectors
Increased use of phenolic resins in lightweight composites and insulation materials drives trade volume, particularly in Asia-Pacific and North America.
2021-2023
Shift towards bio-based phenolic resins
Rising environmental concerns are pushing research into sustainable alternatives, potentially reducing demand for traditional formulations in the long term.
2022-2023
Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions
Trade restrictions and raw material shortages have led to price volatility and shifts in supply chains, affecting export volumes from major producers like China.
2022
The European Union has introduced new limits on formaldehyde emissions in chemical products, including phenolic resins, to meet environmental and health safety standards.
June 2023
Manufacturers exporting to the EU may face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing trade volumes or increasing prices.
Several Chinese chemical companies have announced investments in new production facilities to meet rising domestic and international demand for phenolic resins.
March 2023
This could solidify China's position as the leading exporter, potentially lowering global prices due to increased supply.
The United States extended tariffs on certain chemical products, including phenolic resins, as part of ongoing trade negotiations with China.
September 2022
Increased costs for US importers may shift sourcing to other countries like South Korea or domestic producers.