HS Code:
Sodium thiocyanate (CAS No. 540-72-7), classified under HS Code 2842.90.10, is an inorganic compound used primarily in the chemical industry as a reagent, in the production of synthetic fibers (like acrylic fibers), and in various industrial applications such as photography, pharmaceuticals, and as a corrosion inhibitor. It appears as a white crystalline powder and is highly soluble in water. The global trade of sodium thiocyanate is influenced by demand in industrial sectors, particularly in textile manufacturing and chemical synthesis, with significant production and consumption in regions with strong chemical industries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$20 million USD
40% 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
Increasing
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$3 million USD
6% 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 like EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in textile industry
Increased production of acrylic fibers in Asia-Pacific drives demand for sodium thiocyanate as a solvent, boosting trade volumes particularly from China and India.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable chemicals
Emerging regulations on chemical usage in Europe may reduce demand for certain applications of sodium thiocyanate, encouraging innovation in green alternatives.
2022-2023
Rising industrial applications
Increased use in corrosion inhibitors and pharmaceutical intermediates sustains steady demand in North America and Europe.
2020-2022
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines under REACH for handling and importing sodium thiocyanate, requiring detailed safety data sheets and compliance with environmental standards.
June 2023
May increase compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant countries.
Major Chinese chemical manufacturers announced plans to expand sodium thiocyanate production facilities to meet growing domestic and international demand.
March 2023
Likely to reinforce China's position as the leading exporter, potentially lowering global prices due to increased supply.
The United States revised tariffs on certain chemical imports, including sodium thiocyanate, as part of trade negotiations with key partners.
January 2023
Could influence trade flows, benefiting exporters from countries with favorable trade agreements while impacting others.