Quaternary Ammonium Salts and Hydroxides (NESOI)

If the quaternary ammonium compound is imported as a formulated disinfectant or antimicrobial product intended for pesticidal use, it falls under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and requires an EPA registration number. Bulk technical-grade quats imported as chemical intermediates typically require only TSCA certification, but the intended end-use drives the regulatory pathway.

China dominates supply of quaternary ammonium salts under this heading, meaning that trade-policy shifts — including Section 301 tariff actions — or logistics disruptions can have outsized effects on availability and cost. Importers reliant on high-purity or specialty grades may find the UK and India as alternative sources, though capacity and specification matching should be verified before switching suppliers.