HS Code:
Tannic acid, classified under HS Code 320190 (containing by weight 50% or more of tannic acid), is a naturally occurring polyphenol found in various plants and used primarily in the leather tanning industry, pharmaceuticals, and as a food additive. It serves as a clarifying agent in beer and wine production and has applications in textiles and cosmetics due to its astringent properties. Global trade in tannic acid is influenced by the availability of raw materials like oak bark, gall nuts, and tara pods, predominantly sourced from specific regions with favorable climatic conditions.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $120 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$45 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$10 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$8 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 to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-US or within ASEAN)
Rising demand in food and beverage industry
Increased exports from major producers like China and India due to growing use as a natural preservative and clarifying agent
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable sourcing
Growing preference for tannic acid derived from tara pods in Peru, driven by eco-friendly certifications and consumer demand for green products
2020-2022
Fluctuating raw material prices
Price volatility of gall nuts and other sources affecting trade stability, particularly for smaller exporters
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines on the use of tannic acid as a food additive, requiring detailed labeling and maximum residue limits.
March 2023
Potential reduction in exports to EU markets for non-compliant producers; increased compliance costs for exporters.
Ongoing discussions between China and India to reduce tariffs on chemical intermediates, including tannic acid, to boost bilateral trade.
July 2023
Possible increase in trade volume between the two largest producers, potentially lowering global prices.
Favorable weather conditions in Peru led to a 15% increase in tara pod production, a key source of tannic acid, strengthening export capacity.
September 2022
Enhanced market share for Peru in sustainable tannic acid supply, especially to North American and European markets.