Market
Dextrins/roasted starch (commonly traded under HS 350510: dextrins and other modified starches) is supplied to Uruguay largely via imports. UN Comtrade-derived data (WITS) indicates Uruguay’s 2024 sourcing for HS 350510 was led by Brazil and the United States by export value. In Uruguay, this product is primarily a B2B input used by domestic manufacturers rather than a consumer retail item. Market access and labeling expectations are shaped by MERCOSUR technical rules for modified starches and Uruguay’s national food regulatory framework.
Market RoleNet importer (import-dependent market for HS 350510 modified starches)
Domestic RoleIndustrial input for domestic manufacturing (primarily food industry applications)
Market Growth
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighNon-compliance with MERCOSUR/Uruguay requirements for modified starches (including correct ingredient designation/labeling for chemically modified starches and conformity to referenced specifications) can block market access, trigger border holds, or lead to downstream product compliance issues for Uruguay-based manufacturers.Confirm HS/NCM classification and intended use (food vs. industrial); align labeling/ingredient naming to MERCOSUR GMC/RES No. 106/94 principles; provide CoA and specification evidence (e.g., FCC-aligned where applicable) in the importer’s documentation pack.
Supply Concentration MediumImport supply for HS 350510 into Uruguay is concentrated among a limited set of origin countries; 2024 leading origins by export value include Brazil and the United States, creating exposure to origin-specific disruptions or pricing shifts.Qualify at least two origin options (e.g., regional + extra-regional) and pre-approve substitute grades/specs with the end-user’s QA team.
Logistics MediumOcean freight delays and rate volatility can disrupt delivery schedules and landed costs for import-dependent bulk powders, affecting production planning for Uruguay-based manufacturers.Use forecast-based ordering with buffer stock; contract incoterms and lead times that reflect port/seasonal variability; diversify forwarders and routing where feasible.
Documentation Gap MediumCustoms clearance delays can occur if documents are incomplete or inconsistent with the customs declaration process (DUA) and classification in the MERCOSUR nomenclature.Run a pre-shipment document checklist with the customs broker (invoice, packing list, transport doc, origin proof if used) and ensure product description matches the declared classification.
FAQ
Who were the main external suppliers to Uruguay for HS 350510 (dextrins and other modified starches) in 2024?UN Comtrade-derived data published via the World Bank WITS portal shows Brazil and the United States as the top exporters to Uruguay for HS 350510 in 2024 by export value, followed by the European Union/Germany and Thailand.
How does MERCOSUR treat chemically modified starches for food labeling purposes?MERCOSUR GMC/RES No. 106/94 states that chemically modified starches are considered ingredients and should be declared in the ingredient list as 'modified starch' (while native starches and physically/enzymatically modified starches are declared as 'starch').
What is a key procedural requirement to import this product into Uruguay?Imports typically require a registered importer working with a customs broker (Despachante de Aduana) who classifies the goods and submits the Documento Único Aduanero (DUA) to Uruguay’s Dirección Nacional de Aduanas (DNA).