HS Code:
The category of Cigarette lighters and other lighters, whether or not mechanical or electrical, and parts thereof other than flints and wicks (HS Code: 9613) encompasses a range of products including disposable and refillable lighters, electric arc lighters, and their components. These products are widely used for personal, household, and industrial purposes, such as lighting cigarettes, candles, or gas stoves. The global trade of this category is influenced by consumer preferences, regulatory frameworks on tobacco-related products, and environmental concerns regarding disposable plastic lighters.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 650 million
54.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 60 million
5.0% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
6.5%
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Shift towards electric and rechargeable lighters
Driven by environmental concerns over disposable plastic lighters, this shift is increasing demand for sustainable and reusable products, impacting traditional lighter manufacturers.
2021-2022
Decline in cigarette lighter demand in developed markets
Due to decreasing smoking rates in regions like North America and Europe, manufacturers are diversifying into utility lighters for candles and outdoor use.
2020-2022
Growth in emerging markets
Higher smoking rates and increasing disposable incomes in regions like Asia-Pacific and Africa are driving demand for affordable disposable lighters.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines under the Single-Use Plastics Directive, targeting disposable lighters as part of efforts to reduce plastic waste.
July 2021
Manufacturers are pivoting towards biodegradable materials and reusable designs, increasing production costs but opening new market segments.
The United States imposed additional tariffs on Chinese lighter imports as part of broader trade tensions, affecting pricing and supply chains.
September 2022
This has led to a slight shift in sourcing to other countries like Vietnam and India, though China remains dominant due to cost advantages.
Major manufacturers have launched new lines of electric arc lighters that are windproof and rechargeable, targeting eco-conscious consumers.
March 2023
This innovation is expected to capture a larger market share, particularly in outdoor and premium segments, while challenging traditional lighter sales.