Paraffin wax; containing by weight less than 0.75% of oil, obtained by synthesis or by other processes, whether or not coloured

HS code 271220 covers paraffin wax, a versatile and widely-used material derived from petroleum. Paraffin wax is a solid, crystalline hydrocarbon that finds applications across numerous industries, from candle-making to food processing to cosmetics. As a key component in the global energy and petrochemicals supply chain, this HS code represents an important segment of international trade and economic activity.

Paraffin wax is primarily produced through the refining of crude oil. The process typically involves distillation, dewaxing, and hydrogenation steps to extract and purify the wax from the heavier fractions of petroleum. Synthetic paraffin wax can also be produced through the Fischer-Tropsch process, which converts synthesis gas (a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen) into liquid hydrocarbons.

The main inputs for the paraffin wax industry include crude oil, natural gas, and other petroleum feedstocks. Specialized equipment such as distillation columns, dewaxing units, and hydrogenation reactors are also essential for the production process. Additionally, the industry relies on a range of chemical catalysts and additives to enhance the properties of the final wax product.

The primary output of HS code 271220 is paraffin wax, which is then used as an input for a variety of downstream industries. Some of the main consumers of paraffin wax include the 340600 Candles, tapers and the like industry, the 340520 Polishes and creams, for footwear, furniture, floors, coachwork, glass or metal industry, and the 340111 Soap and organic surface-active products and preparations for use as soap, in the form of bars, cakes, moulded pieces or shapes, whether or not containing soap industry. Paraffin wax is also used in the production of 271290 Other mineral waxes and similar products obtained by synthesis or by other processes, whether or not coloured, lubricants, and various other petroleum-based products.