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SITCSection 5
U.S. imports of expansible (expandable) polystyrene in primary forms (SITC 57211) totaled $30.8M in April 2026, traded with 15 countries.
Importers of Expansible (Expandable) Polystyrene in Primary Forms paid $639K in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 13% on $5.1M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule. Expansible (Expandable) Polystyrene in Primary Forms imports of $30.8M in April 2026 ran 13% above the year-to-date monthly average of $27.3M.
Last updated: April 2026 dataExpansible polystyrene — commercially known as EPS — is distinguished from standard polystyrene by the incorporation of a blowing agent (typically pentane) that allows the beads to expand into lightweight foam when exposed to steam. EPS is the dominant material for protective packaging, insulated food-service containers, and building insulation board. Import volumes are sensitive to construction activity and packaging demand cycles, and the product's low bulk density relative to its value can make freight economics a significant factor in sourcing decisions.
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The presence of an incorporated blowing agent (such as pentane) is the defining characteristic. Importers should provide a technical data sheet or safety data sheet confirming the blowing agent content; without it, CBP may classify the material as non-expansible polystyrene, which carries a different heading.
EPS beads containing pentane are subject to flammability and hazardous materials transport regulations (DOT/IATA), which affect packaging and labeling requirements during shipment. Some US states also have restrictions on EPS food-service products, though those apply at the finished-article stage rather than at import of the raw resin.
| Country | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| CANADA | $14.7M | $3.2M | -$11.6M |
| MEXICO | $11.0M | $3.9M | -$7.1M |
| KOREA, SOUTH | $2.7M | -- | -$2.7M |
| TAIWAN | $1.3M | -- | -$1.3M |
| CHINA | -- | $996K | +$996K |
Monthly import values over time
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