HS Code:
The category 'Containing by weight 99.99 percent or more of zinc' (HS Code: 7901.11) refers to unwrought zinc with a purity level of 99.99% or higher. This high-purity zinc is primarily used in industries such as galvanizing, die-casting, and the production of zinc alloys. It serves as a critical raw material in manufacturing processes for corrosion-resistant coatings, automotive parts, and electrical components. Global trade in this category is driven by industrial demand, particularly in construction and automotive sectors, with significant production and consumption in regions with robust manufacturing bases.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $3.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$650 million USD
20.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$500 million USD
15.6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$400 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$350 million USD
10.9% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$300 million USD
9.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
3.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
8% (imposed by certain developing economies to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Canada CETA and CPTPP)
Rising demand for high-purity zinc in renewable energy applications
Increased trade volumes driven by zinc use in battery technologies and solar panel manufacturing
2021-2023
Shift toward sustainable mining and refining practices
Higher production costs but improved market access in regions with strict environmental regulations
2020-2022
Volatility in zinc prices due to geopolitical tensions
Fluctuations in trade flows as importers seek stable supply chains
2022
South Korea announced a $200 million investment in expanding high-purity zinc refining facilities to meet growing demand in the electronics and automotive sectors.
March 2023
Expected to solidify South Korea's position as the top exporter, potentially increasing trade volume by 10% in the next two years.
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring zinc suppliers to comply with carbon emission reduction targets, affecting imports from non-compliant regions.
January 2023
May reduce imports from certain countries while benefiting exporters with sustainable practices like Canada and Australia.
China implemented tighter export controls on high-purity zinc to prioritize domestic industrial needs amid supply chain disruptions.
October 2022
Led to a noticeable decline in China's export share, redirecting demand to other major suppliers like South Korea and Australia.