HS Code:
Ytterbium trifluoride powder (CAS No. 13760-80-0) is a rare earth compound used primarily in specialized industrial applications such as optical coatings, laser technology, and as a component in phosphors for lighting and displays. With a median particle size of greater than 0.2 microns and less than 0.7 microns, it falls under HS Code 2846.90.80, which covers compounds of rare earth metals. This fine particle size range makes it suitable for high-precision applications requiring uniform dispersion and specific surface properties.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $15 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$8.5 million USD
56.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$2.3 million USD
15.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.8 million USD
12.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.2 million USD
8.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$0.8 million USD
5.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or WTO bindings for rare earth compounds)
Growing demand in laser and optical technologies
Increased trade volume due to rising applications in fiber optics and high-performance lasers for industrial and medical use
2021-2023
Supply chain diversification efforts
Countries are seeking alternative suppliers outside China to reduce dependency on a single source, boosting trade from other regions
2020-2022
Rising production costs due to environmental regulations
Higher prices for ytterbium trifluoride as producers comply with stricter mining and processing standards
2019-2023
China updated its export control policies for rare earth compounds, including ytterbium trifluoride, to prioritize domestic high-tech industries, potentially tightening global supply.
October 2022
Increased prices and supply uncertainty for importing countries, prompting diversification efforts
The US government announced funding for domestic rare earth processing facilities to reduce reliance on foreign supply, including compounds like ytterbium trifluoride.
June 2023
Potential increase in US production and trade volume in the coming years
The European Union introduced the Critical Raw Materials Act to secure supply chains for rare earths, including incentives for recycling and sustainable sourcing of ytterbium compounds.
March 2023
Likely to boost demand for sustainably produced ytterbium trifluoride in the EU market