HS Code:
Refrigerant recovery and recycling units (often classified under HS Code 8479.89 or similar subheadings depending on specific use) are specialized equipment designed to recover, recycle, and reclaim refrigerants from air conditioning and refrigeration systems. These units play a critical role in environmental protection by preventing the release of harmful refrigerants, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), into the atmosphere, aligning with international agreements like the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment. They are widely used in automotive, industrial, and commercial sectors for maintenance and disposal of refrigeration systems.
Total Trade Volume
USD 320 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 85 million
26.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 60 million
18.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 45 million
14.1% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 30 million
9.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 20 million
6.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA or within WTO commitments)
Rising demand due to stricter environmental regulations
Increased adoption of recovery and recycling units in automotive and HVAC sectors to comply with global agreements like the Kigali Amendment, driving market growth by 8-10% annually.
2021-2023
Technological advancements in equipment
Development of more efficient and portable units with higher recovery rates, leading to greater market penetration, especially in developing economies.
2020-2022
Shift towards sustainable refrigerants
Growing focus on low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants is influencing the design and demand for compatible recovery units, reshaping market dynamics.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter F-Gas regulations, mandating higher recovery rates and phasing down HFCs, boosting demand for advanced recovery units.
January 2023
Increased exports to the EU market by 15% for compliant equipment manufacturers.
The US Environmental Protection Agency updated certification requirements for refrigerant recovery equipment under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, emphasizing higher efficiency.
October 2022
Manufacturers face higher compliance costs but benefit from reduced competition in the US market.
China launched incentives for green manufacturing, including subsidies for producing eco-friendly refrigerant recovery units, strengthening its position as a key exporter.
March 2023
Enhanced China’s trade volume by approximately 10% in this category.