HS Code:
Drinking water coolers, self-contained (HS Code: 841869), encompass refrigeration equipment designed to cool and dispense drinking water, typically used in offices, public spaces, and homes. These units are standalone and often include features such as filtration systems, temperature control, and sometimes heating capabilities for hot water dispensing. This category is part of the broader machinery and mechanical appliances sector and is influenced by factors like urbanization, demand for clean drinking water, and energy efficiency regulations.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 450 million
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for energy-efficient coolers
Manufacturers are increasingly adopting inverter technology and eco-friendly refrigerants to meet global sustainability standards, driving up production costs but also opening premium market segments.
2021-2022
Growth in smart water coolers
Integration of IoT features like remote monitoring and touchless dispensing has gained traction post-COVID-19, increasing demand in commercial and healthcare sectors.
2020-2022
Urbanization in developing economies
Increased urbanization in Asia and Africa has boosted demand for affordable water cooling solutions in offices and public spaces, expanding market opportunities for low-cost manufacturers.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in refrigeration equipment, mandating low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) alternatives in new water coolers.
January 2023
Manufacturers exporting to the EU must adapt to new refrigerant standards, potentially increasing production costs but also encouraging innovation in green technologies.
Negotiations under the US-China trade agreement have reduced tariffs on certain machinery categories, including water coolers, facilitating smoother trade flows between the two largest players in this market.
March 2023
Reduced tariffs are expected to increase Chinese exports to the US, potentially lowering prices for consumers but intensifying competition for domestic US manufacturers.
Ongoing supply chain challenges, including semiconductor shortages for smart coolers and rising shipping costs, have delayed production and delivery timelines for water cooler manufacturers.
Mid-2022 to Early 2023
These disruptions have led to temporary price hikes and inventory shortages in key markets, affecting both manufacturers and consumers.