HS Code:
Tonka beans, classified under HS Code 1211.90 (plants and parts of plants used primarily in perfumery, pharmacy, or for insecticidal, fungicidal, or similar purposes), are the seeds of the Dipteryx odorata tree, native to South America. They are highly valued for their aromatic properties, reminiscent of vanilla, almond, and cinnamon, and are used in perfumery, cosmetics, and as a flavoring agent in food and tobacco industries. Due to concerns over coumarin content, a naturally occurring compound in tonka beans that can be toxic in large quantities, their use in food is restricted or banned in some countries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 1,200 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map, UN Comtrade Database
800 metric tons
66.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
250 metric tons
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
100 metric tons
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
30 metric tons (importer)
2.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
20 metric tons (importer)
1.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (United States for food use, due to coumarin restrictions)
Lowest Rate
0% (EU under preferential trade agreements with South American countries)
Rising demand in perfumery and cosmetics
Increased export volumes from Brazil and Guyana as niche fragrance markets grow in Europe and North America
2021-2022
Stricter regulations on coumarin content
Reduced imports for food flavoring purposes, with a shift towards synthetic alternatives in some markets
2020-2022
Sustainability concerns in sourcing
Growing preference for ethically sourced tonka beans, pushing exporters to adopt sustainable harvesting practices
2022
The European Union revised its regulations on coumarin content in cosmetic products, setting stricter limits that may affect tonka bean extract usage.
March 2023
Potential reduction in demand for tonka bean extracts in the EU unless processed to meet new standards.
Brazilian authorities launched initiatives to promote sustainable tonka bean harvesting in the Amazon region, supported by international NGOs.
July 2022
Likely to boost Brazil's export competitiveness by appealing to eco-conscious buyers in Europe.
The US Food and Drug Administration reiterated its ban on tonka beans in food products, citing health risks associated with coumarin.
October 2021
Continued limitation on market access for tonka beans in the US food sector, redirecting focus to perfumery applications.