HS Code:
Tetramethylthiuram monosulfide (TMTM) falls under HS Code 293030, which covers thiuram mono-, di-, or tetrasulfides. It is a chemical compound primarily used as a vulcanization accelerator in the rubber industry. TMTM enhances the speed of rubber curing processes, improving the durability and elasticity of rubber products such as tires, hoses, and belts. It is also utilized in fungicides and as an additive in industrial applications. Due to its chemical nature, it is subject to strict environmental and safety regulations in many countries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and ITC Trade Map
$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
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in automotive sector
Increased production of tires and rubber components drives TMTM demand, especially in emerging markets like India and Southeast Asia.
2021-2023
Shift towards eco-friendly alternatives
Stricter environmental regulations in Europe and North America are pushing manufacturers to explore less toxic vulcanization accelerators, potentially reducing TMTM market share.
2020-2022
Rising raw material costs
Fluctuations in the prices of sulfur and other chemical inputs have led to increased production costs, affecting profit margins for TMTM suppliers.
2022
The European Union updated its REACH regulations to impose stricter controls on thiuram compounds, including TMTM, citing potential environmental and health risks.
June 2023
European importers face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing TMTM imports in favor of alternative chemicals.
Several Chinese chemical manufacturers announced plans to increase TMTM production to meet rising global demand, particularly from the automotive sector.
March 2023
This could lead to lower global prices due to increased supply, benefiting importing countries but pressuring smaller producers.
A new bilateral trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain chemical products, including TMTM, between the US and China.
January 2023
This is expected to boost US imports of TMTM from China, strengthening trade ties in this category.