HS Code:
Chopped strands, of a length more than 50 mm, fall under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 7019.11.00. This category primarily includes glass fiber strands that are cut into specific lengths for use in reinforcing plastics, composites, and other materials. These strands are critical in industries such as automotive, construction, and aerospace for manufacturing lightweight, durable, and high-strength products. The global trade of chopped strands is influenced by the demand for composite materials, advancements in manufacturing technologies, and regional production capacities.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 450 million
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 80 million
6.7% 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 like EU-USMCA)
Growing demand for lightweight materials in automotive and aerospace
Increased demand for chopped strands as a reinforcement material in composites, boosting trade volumes by 8% annually
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable production practices
Manufacturers adopting eco-friendly processes, influencing trade policies and increasing costs by 5-10% in some regions
2022-2023
Rising competition from alternative materials
Carbon fiber and natural fiber composites challenging market share, potentially reducing growth rates by 2-3% in mature markets
2020-2023
The European Union introduced anti-dumping duties ranging from 8-12% on chopped strands imported from China to protect domestic manufacturers.
March 2023
Expected to shift trade flows towards other Asian exporters like South Korea and Taiwan, increasing costs for EU importers by approximately 10%.
Under the USMCA, chopped strands traded between the US, Canada, and Mexico are now subject to zero tariffs, boosting regional trade.
January 2023
Trade volume within North America increased by 15% in the first half of 2023 due to reduced costs and streamlined supply chains.
New production techniques in Japan have improved the tensile strength of chopped strands, increasing their application in high-performance composites.
July 2023
Japanese exports are projected to grow by 5% in 2024 as demand for premium products rises in aerospace and automotive sectors.