HS Code:
The category of Angles, Shapes, and Sections under HS Codes 7216.31.00, 7216.32.00, 7216.33.00, 7216.40.00, 7216.50.00, 7216.99.00, 7228.70.30 (excluding certain statistical reporting numbers), and 7228.70.60 pertains to iron, non-alloy steel, and alloy steel products used primarily in construction and manufacturing. These products include U, I, H, L, and T sections, as well as other shapes, often utilized as structural components in buildings, bridges, and machinery. They are critical in industries requiring high-strength materials and are traded globally based on quality, price, and compliance with international standards.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $15.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$3.8 billion USD
25% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$2.1 billion USD
14% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.5 billion USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.2 billion USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.0 billion USD
7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by certain countries under anti-dumping measures)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable steel production
Increased trade in low-carbon steel shapes and sections as industries adopt greener practices, influencing export patterns from countries with advanced recycling technologies.
2021-2023
Infrastructure boom in developing economies
Higher import demand in regions like Southeast Asia and Africa for structural steel products, boosting exports from major producers like China and South Korea.
2020-2022
Fluctuating raw material prices
Volatility in iron ore and scrap metal prices affects production costs, leading to price instability in the global market for angles and sections.
2022
The European Union extended its safeguard measures on steel imports, including angles and sections, to protect domestic producers from oversupply, particularly from Asian exporters.
June 2023
Potential reduction in export volumes to the EU from non-quota countries, redirecting trade flows to other regions.
The United States adjusted tariffs on steel imports under Section 232, replacing some tariffs with tariff-rate quotas for allies, impacting trade of structural steel products.
January 2022
Improved market access for certain exporters like the EU and Japan, while maintaining restrictions on others like China.
China reduced export tax rebates for certain steel products, including angles and sections, to curb overproduction and focus on domestic carbon reduction goals.
May 2021
Slight reduction in Chinese export competitiveness, creating opportunities for other exporters like South Korea and Turkey.