HS Code:
DC motors with an output between 190 W and 290 W, weighing less than 1 kg, and housed in a cylindrical casing with a height of approximately 55 mm and a radius of approximately 45 mm, fall under HS Code 8501.31.40. These motors are typically used in applications requiring compact and lightweight power sources, such as in automotive components (e.g., power windows, seat adjustments), small industrial machinery, robotics, and consumer electronics. Their specific power range and size constraints make them a niche but critical component in precision-driven industries.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs)
Increased need for compact DC motors in EV auxiliary systems, driving export growth from manufacturing hubs like China and Japan.
2021-2023
Automation and robotics boom
Growth in industrial automation has boosted demand for precision DC motors, particularly in Germany and South Korea, for use in robotic arms and automated assembly lines.
2020-2022
Shift toward energy-efficient designs
Manufacturers are focusing on motors with lower energy consumption to meet global sustainability standards, influencing trade patterns as countries prioritize eco-friendly imports.
2019-2023
The US imposed additional tariffs on Chinese-made DC motors under Section 301, citing unfair trade practices. This has led to a slight shift in sourcing to other countries like Vietnam and Mexico.
Mid-2022
Increased costs for US importers, potential diversification of supply chains.
The European Union introduced stricter energy efficiency requirements for imported DC motors as part of the Green Deal, affecting non-compliant exporters.
Early 2023
Non-EU exporters must invest in compliance or risk losing market share in Europe.
Japanese and German manufacturers unveiled new lightweight, high-efficiency DC motors in this power range, enhancing performance for robotics and automotive applications.
Late 2022
Increased competitiveness of high-end products from these countries, potentially raising global price benchmarks.