HS Code:
Sorbitol, classified under HS Code categories other than 2905.44, refers to forms of sorbitol that are not specifically D-glucitol (sorbitol) in its pure form. Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol used primarily as a sweetener, humectant, and texturizing agent in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. It is derived from glucose, often sourced from corn or wheat, and is valued for its low caloric content and suitability for diabetic-friendly products. This category may include sorbitol in various forms or mixtures, often used in industrial applications or as intermediates in chemical processes. Global trade in sorbitol is driven by demand in food processing, personal care products, and pharmaceutical formulations, with significant production and export activity in countries with strong agricultural bases.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map, UN Comtrade Database
$450 million USD
37.5% 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
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for low-calorie sweeteners
Increased export volumes to health-conscious markets in North America and Europe, driving production in major exporting countries like China and France.
2021-2022
Growth in pharmaceutical applications
Sorbitol's use as an excipient in drug formulations has boosted trade, particularly to countries with expanding healthcare sectors like India and Brazil.
2020-2022
Shift towards sustainable sourcing
Preference for bio-based sorbitol derived from renewable sources has influenced trade patterns, favoring exporters with sustainable agricultural practices.
2019-2022
China announced subsidies for sorbitol manufacturers to boost exports, aiming to capture a larger share of the Asian and African markets.
March 2023
Likely to increase global supply, potentially lowering prices but raising concerns over anti-dumping measures in importing countries.
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines on the use of sorbitol in food products, requiring detailed origin and safety certifications.
January 2023
May increase compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially affecting smaller producers while benefiting those with established certification processes.
Negotiations between the US and India included discussions on reducing tariffs for chemical intermediates like sorbitol derivatives.
September 2022
Could lead to increased bilateral trade, benefiting Indian exporters and US importers in the pharmaceutical and food sectors.