HS Code:
Synthetic detergents, classified under HS Code 3402, encompass a wide range of cleaning agents including laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, and industrial cleaners. These products are formulated using synthetic surfactants, which are derived from petrochemicals or oleochemicals, offering effective cleaning properties across various applications. The global trade of synthetic detergents is driven by household demand, industrial usage, and increasing awareness of hygiene standards, particularly in developing economies. This category excludes soaps and focuses on chemically formulated detergents.
Total Trade Volume
USD 40.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 5.2 billion
12.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 4.8 billion
11.9% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 3.9 billion
9.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.7 billion
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 2.3 billion
5.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Shift towards eco-friendly detergents
Increased demand for biodegradable and phosphate-free products due to environmental regulations and consumer awareness, driving innovation in formulations.
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce sales channels
Online platforms have boosted accessibility to premium and niche detergent brands, especially post-COVID, reshaping distribution strategies.
2020-2022
Rising demand in emerging markets
Urbanization and rising disposable incomes in Asia and Africa have led to higher consumption of household cleaning products, expanding market opportunities.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on the use of microplastics and non-biodegradable components in detergents to reduce environmental impact.
March 2023
Manufacturers are compelled to reformulate products, potentially increasing production costs but opening markets for green-certified detergents.
A new phase of trade negotiations reduced tariffs on chemical products, including synthetic detergents, between the US and China, easing export barriers.
January 2023
Enhanced market access for US exporters to China, potentially increasing trade volume by 10-15% in this category over the next two years.
India imposed anti-dumping duties on synthetic detergent imports from specific Southeast Asian countries to protect domestic manufacturers.
September 2022
Increased costs for importers and a shift in sourcing strategies, with potential growth in domestic production capacity.