HS Code:
The 'Containing mainly lead' category, typically classified under HS Code 7801, includes unwrought lead and lead alloys where lead is the predominant element by weight. This category encompasses refined lead, lead bullion, and other forms of lead used primarily in industries such as battery manufacturing, construction, and radiation shielding. Lead is a critical raw material in the production of lead-acid batteries, which are widely used in automotive and industrial applications. Global trade in this category is influenced by industrial demand, recycling rates, environmental regulations, and fluctuations in mining output.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $4.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$800 million USD
17.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$600 million USD
13.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$550 million USD
12.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$400 million USD
8.9% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$350 million USD
7.8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
3.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for specific WTO members)
Rising demand for lead-acid batteries in renewable energy storage
Increased trade volume as countries invest in grid storage solutions for solar and wind energy, driving demand for lead in battery production.
2021-2023
Shift towards recycling and circular economy practices
Growth in trade of recycled lead as environmental regulations tighten, reducing reliance on primary lead mining.
2020-2022
Decline in lead use in non-battery applications
Reduced trade in specific sectors like paints and coatings due to health and environmental concerns, focusing trade on battery-related uses.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter environmental standards for imported lead products, requiring detailed documentation on recycling processes and emission controls.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant countries while favoring those with advanced recycling technologies.
South Korea announced investments in expanding lead-acid and alternative battery production facilities to meet growing demand in electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors.
July 2022
Boosted South Korea’s position as a leading exporter of lead, with increased demand for raw and refined lead imports from Australia and other suppliers.
Due to aging mines and environmental restrictions, Australia reported a slight decline in lead production, impacting export volumes.
October 2022
Potential price increases for lead on the global market and a shift in supply chains towards alternative producers like Peru and China.