HS Code:
The category of Artificial Graphite; Colloidal or Semi-Colloidal Graphite; Preparations Based on Graphite or Other Carbon in the Form of Pastes, Blocks, Plates, or Other Semimanufactures (HS Code: 3801) includes products derived from carbon or graphite that are processed into various forms for industrial applications. These products are crucial in industries such as electronics, metallurgy, and energy storage (e.g., batteries for electric vehicles). Artificial graphite is often used as an electrode material in steel production and lithium-ion batteries, while colloidal graphite serves as a lubricant or conductive material. This category represents a niche but high-value segment of the global trade market due to its specialized applications.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 1.2 billion
48% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 400 million
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 300 million
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Japan EPA)
Rising demand for artificial graphite in EV battery production
Significant growth in trade volume, especially from China and South Korea, driven by the global shift to electric vehicles
2021-2022
Increased focus on sustainable production methods
Higher production costs but growing preference for eco-friendly graphite products in Europe and North America
2020-2022
Supply chain diversification efforts
Countries like the US and EU are seeking alternatives to Chinese dominance in graphite supply to reduce dependency
2022
The United States announced initiatives to secure domestic supply chains for critical minerals, including artificial graphite, by incentivizing local production and partnerships with allied nations.
June 2022
Likely to increase US imports from non-Chinese sources and stimulate domestic production in the medium term
China introduced stricter export controls on high-purity graphite products to prioritize domestic needs for battery manufacturing.
October 2023
Potential price increases and supply disruptions for countries heavily reliant on Chinese graphite exports
The European Union implemented policies under the Green Deal to ensure sustainable sourcing and recycling of graphite for battery production.
March 2023
Increased demand for certified sustainable graphite products, influencing trade patterns with stricter import standards