HS Code:
The category of Containers for compressed gases (filled or empty) and containers or other articles used for covering or holding merchandise during transportation, suitable for reuse (commonly classified under HS Code 7311 for gas containers and related codes like 3923 or 6305 for other reusable containers), encompasses a wide range of products essential for industrial, commercial, and personal use. These include cylinders for storing compressed or liquefied gases (e.g., oxygen, nitrogen, or propane), as well as reusable packaging materials like crates, pallets, and protective covers used in logistics to secure goods during transit. This category is critical to global supply chains, supporting industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, energy, and retail by ensuring safe storage and transportation of goods and hazardous materials.
Total Trade Volume
USD 12.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & World Trade Organization (WTO) Reports
USD 3.2 billion
25.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.1 billion
16.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.5 billion
12.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.0 billion
8.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 0.8 billion
6.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12.5% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA or in WTO member states with specific exemptions)
Increased demand for sustainable and reusable packaging solutions
Driven by global efforts to reduce single-use plastics, there is a growing market for durable, reusable containers, boosting trade volumes by 8% annually since 2020.
2022
Rising adoption of compressed gas containers in healthcare
The demand for medical oxygen cylinders and related containers surged due to the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing trade in this subcategory by 15% between 2020 and 2022.
2022
Technological advancements in container safety and tracking
Innovations like IoT-enabled tracking for reusable containers and improved materials for gas cylinders are enhancing safety and efficiency, influencing a 5% rise in trade value.
2023
The European Union introduced new regulations under the European Green Deal to mandate higher reuse rates for transportation containers, aiming to reduce waste by 2030.
March 2023
This is expected to increase demand for compliant reusable containers, potentially raising EU imports by 10% over the next five years.
The United States reduced tariffs on certain Chinese-made gas containers as part of trade negotiations, while maintaining strict safety compliance checks.
July 2023
This has led to a 7% increase in imports from China, benefiting US industries reliant on affordable gas storage solutions.
Ongoing supply chain challenges, including port congestion and raw material shortages, have delayed the production and delivery of reusable containers and gas cylinders.
January 2023
Trade volumes saw a temporary 3% dip in Q1 2023, though recovery is expected with improved logistics by mid-2024.