US-Australia Trade Agreement on HFCs Tightens Environmental Standards
A new bilateral agreement between the US and Australia aims to regulate the trade of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) including Fluoromethane (HFC-41), 1,2-Difluoroethane (HFC-152), and 1,1-Difluoroethane (HFC-152a) to align with global environmental goals under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.
2023-09-15
Impact: This agreement may lead to stricter import/export controls and reduced trade volumes of these HFCs as both countries phase down their use in favor of eco-friendly alternatives.
US Imposes Temporary Tariff Relief on Australian HFC Imports
The US has granted temporary tariff relief on specific HFC imports from Australia, including HFC-152 and HFC-152a, to address domestic supply shortages in industrial applications.
2023-08-10
Impact: This relief is expected to increase short-term imports of HFCs from Australia to the US, boosting trade in these chemicals until domestic production ramps up.
Australia Increases Export Scrutiny for HFCs to the US
Australia has introduced enhanced export monitoring for HFCs, including HFC-41, to ensure compliance with international environmental regulations, impacting shipments to the US.
2023-07-22
Impact: Trade delays are anticipated as Australian exporters adapt to new documentation and verification processes, potentially affecting supply chains to the US.
