HS Code:
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon, falls under HS Code 3904.61.00. It is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene that has numerous applications due to its non-stick properties, chemical resistance, and high-temperature tolerance. PTFE is widely used in industries such as cookware, electronics, automotive, aerospace, and medical devices for coatings, gaskets, seals, and tubing. Its unique properties make it a critical material in high-performance applications, despite its relatively high cost compared to other polymers.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$350 million USD
29.2% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$280 million USD
23.3% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$120 million USD
10.0% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in renewable energy applications
Increased use of PTFE in solar panel coatings and wind turbine components is driving demand, particularly in Europe and North America.
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable alternatives
Regulatory scrutiny on PFAS chemicals is pushing manufacturers to explore eco-friendly substitutes, potentially impacting PTFE market share.
2022-2023
Expansion in Asia-Pacific manufacturing
Rising industrial output in countries like China and India is boosting regional production and export capacities for PTFE products.
2020-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on PFAS chemicals, including those used in PTFE production, aiming to reduce environmental and health risks.
February 2023
This may increase production costs for PTFE manufacturers in Europe and affect export competitiveness.
A new phase of trade negotiations between the US and China included reduced tariffs on certain chemical products, including PTFE, to ease bilateral trade tensions.
October 2022
This is expected to boost PTFE exports from China to the US, benefiting Chinese manufacturers.
A leading chemical company in Japan announced a breakthrough in PTFE recycling technology, allowing for the reuse of industrial PTFE waste.
June 2023
This development could reduce production costs and address environmental concerns, potentially increasing market adoption.