Polymers, natural; alginic acid, its salts and esters, in primary forms

HS code 391310 covers the production and trade of natural polymers, alginic acid, and its salts and esters in primary forms. These materials are essential components in a wide range of industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and textiles. As a key part of the broader chemicals and plastics sector, the 391310 industry plays a vital role in supporting economic growth and development across numerous downstream applications.

The primary production techniques for HS code 391310 involve the extraction and processing of natural polymers, such as alginates, from various sources like seaweed and other marine organisms. This typically involves harvesting the raw materials, followed by chemical and mechanical processes to isolate and purify the desired compounds. Manufacturers may also employ techniques like polymerization, esterification, and salt formation to produce the final products in their primary forms.

The main inputs required for the 391310 industry include the raw materials (e.g., seaweed, marine algae), as well as various chemicals, solvents, and processing equipment. Manufacturers in this industry rely on a steady supply of high-quality natural resources, as well as access to specialized machinery and technical expertise to efficiently extract and refine the target compounds.

The primary outputs of the 391310 industry are natural polymers, alginic acid, and its salts and esters in their primary forms. These materials are then consumed by a wide range of downstream industries, including 391200 Plastics, other, 300490 Medicaments, 330499 Cosmetic or toilet preparations, and 550410 Artificial filament tow. The versatility and diverse applications of these natural-based materials make them an essential component in the global supply chain.