HS Code:
Potassium cyanide (HS Code: 2837.11) falls under the category of cyanides and cyanide oxides of sodium or other metals. It is a highly toxic chemical compound primarily used in gold mining for the extraction of gold from ore, as well as in organic synthesis and electroplating industries. Due to its extreme toxicity and potential for misuse, its trade is heavily regulated under international agreements like the Chemical Weapons Convention and national laws. The global trade of potassium cyanide is relatively niche, with strict controls on export and import to prevent illicit use.
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
Decreasing
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$4 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for specific industrial use)
Increased demand in gold mining
Rising gold prices have driven demand for potassium cyanide in mining operations, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Africa.
2021-2022
Stricter regulations
Governments worldwide are tightening controls on the trade of potassium cyanide to curb illegal use, impacting trade volumes and increasing compliance costs.
2020-2022
Shift to alternative chemicals
Development of less toxic alternatives for gold extraction is gradually reducing dependence on potassium cyanide in some regions.
2019-2022
China, a leading exporter, introduced stricter export licensing requirements for potassium cyanide to align with international security standards.
March 2023
This may lead to reduced export volumes in the short term but enhance global safety standards.
The US Environmental Protection Agency updated guidelines on the handling and disposal of cyanide compounds, affecting importers and industrial users.
July 2022
Increased compliance costs for US-based industries, potentially reducing import demand.
The African Union launched an initiative to monitor and regulate the use of toxic chemicals like potassium cyanide in artisanal gold mining.
October 2022
Expected to formalize trade channels and reduce illicit trade in African markets.