HS Code:
Coordinate-measuring machines (CMMs) fall under HS Code 9031.80, which covers measuring or checking instruments, appliances, and machines not elsewhere specified. CMMs are precision devices used to measure the physical geometrical characteristics of an object. These machines are critical in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing for quality control and assurance. They operate by using a probe to detect discrete points on the surface of an object, often in a 3D space, to ensure components meet design specifications. Global trade in CMMs is driven by the demand for high-precision manufacturing and technological advancements in metrology.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 350 million
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 280 million
23.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 120 million
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Japan EPA)
Adoption of Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing
Increased demand for automated and digital CMMs integrated with IoT for real-time data analysis and quality control.
2021-2023
Growth in Aerospace and Automotive Sectors
Rising production of complex components in these industries drives the need for high-precision CMMs, boosting trade volumes.
2020-2022
Shift Toward Portable CMMs
Growing preference for portable and flexible CMMs over traditional fixed machines to accommodate on-site measurements.
2022
The European Union introduced updated regulations for precision measuring equipment, including CMMs, to align with digital transformation goals under Industry 4.0.
June 2023
Manufacturers exporting to the EU must comply with stricter digital integration and cybersecurity standards, potentially increasing costs but improving market trust.
Ongoing trade disputes have led to tighter export controls on advanced CMMs from the US to China, citing national security concerns over technology transfer.
March 2023
Reduced trade volume between the two countries, with US exporters seeking alternative markets in Southeast Asia and Europe.
The Japanese government announced subsidies to support domestic CMM manufacturers in adopting AI and automation technologies.
January 2023
Strengthens Japan's competitive edge in the global market, likely increasing export volumes in the coming years.