HS Code:
Aluminum foil, when entered in aggregate annual quantities not to exceed 9.3 thousand metric tons (TMT), falls under specific Harmonized System (HS) codes related to aluminum products, typically under HS 7607. This category includes aluminum foil of a thickness not exceeding 0.2 mm, used widely in packaging, insulation, and industrial applications. It is a critical material in food preservation, pharmaceuticals, and electrical industries due to its lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and barrier properties. Global trade in this category is influenced by production capacities, raw material availability (bauxite and alumina), and trade policies including tariffs and quotas.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 2.5 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map, UN Comtrade Database
1.2 million metric tons
48% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
250,000 metric tons
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
200,000 metric tons
8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
150,000 metric tons
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
120,000 metric tons
5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable packaging
Increased use of aluminum foil in eco-friendly food packaging due to its recyclability, driving trade volumes up by 3-5% annually.
2021-2023
Shift towards lightweight materials in automotive and aerospace
Growing adoption of aluminum foil for thermal insulation and battery applications in electric vehicles, boosting demand in industrial markets.
2022-2023
Supply chain disruptions due to energy costs
High energy prices for aluminum production have led to reduced output in Europe, shifting trade reliance to Asian exporters.
2022
The US Department of Commerce extended anti-dumping duties ranging from 48.64% to 106.09% on Chinese aluminum foil imports to protect domestic producers.
October 2023
Reduced Chinese exports to the US, redirecting supply to other markets like Southeast Asia and increasing costs for US importers.
The European Union adjusted its tariff-rate quotas for aluminum products, including foil, to balance supply amidst energy-driven production cuts in the region.
July 2023
Temporary relief for EU importers, though prices remain elevated due to limited domestic production.
China announced investments in low-carbon aluminum production technologies to meet global sustainability demands, impacting foil production costs and exports.
March 2023
Potential long-term reduction in production costs, increasing China’s competitiveness in global markets.