The Mercury Export Ban Act of 2008 prohibits US export of elemental mercury and restricts long-term storage. On the import side, EPA regulations under TSCA and the Toxic Substances Control Act limit permissible uses of imported mercury. The US is also a party to the Minamata Convention, which requires parties to phase out primary mercury mining and restrict trade. Importers must demonstrate a lawful end use and may need to file TSCA certifications; consulting a licensed customs broker with chemical import experience is strongly recommended.

Permissible uses have narrowed considerably. Remaining lawful applications include certain scientific and calibration instruments, limited use in artisanal and small-scale gold mining contexts subject to EPA oversight, and some specialty electrical equipment. Mercury for use in chlor-alkali production, thermometers, and most measuring devices has been phased out under US regulations. Importers must verify current EPA guidance on allowable uses before placing orders.