HS Code:
The Clad category, often associated with HS Code 72 (Iron and Steel) or specific subcategories like 7210 (Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, clad, plated or coated), refers to materials where a metal is bonded with another metal or material to enhance properties like corrosion resistance, strength, or aesthetic appeal. Clad products are widely used in industries such as construction, automotive, aerospace, and energy for applications requiring durability and specialized performance characteristics. This category includes stainless steel clad plates, aluminum-clad materials, and other composite metal products.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $15 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Reports
$4.2 billion USD
28% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$2.1 billion USD
14% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.8 billion USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.5 billion USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.2 billion USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
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)
Rising demand for lightweight clad materials in automotive and aerospace
Increased trade in aluminum and titanium-clad products to meet fuel efficiency and emission standards
2021-2023
Growth in renewable energy infrastructure
Higher demand for clad materials in solar panel frames and wind turbine components
2020-2022
Technological advancements in cladding processes
Improved product quality and reduced costs, boosting competitiveness of manufacturers in Asia and Europe
2019-2023
The European Union introduced provisional anti-dumping duties ranging from 15% to 25% on clad steel imports from China to protect domestic producers.
March 2023
Potential shift in trade flows, with EU importers seeking alternative suppliers from Japan and South Korea.
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) revised rules of origin for clad products, requiring higher regional content for tariff-free trade.
July 2022
Encourages North American production but may increase costs for manufacturers reliant on Asian imports.
Major Japanese steelmakers announced investments in advanced cladding technologies to meet growing global demand in energy and automotive sectors.
September 2023
Strengthens Japan's position as a leading exporter of high-quality clad products.