HS Code:
Etched capacitor foil, classified under HS Code 7607.11 or related subcategories, refers to aluminum foil that has been etched to increase its surface area, making it suitable for use in the manufacture of electrolytic capacitors. These capacitors are essential components in electronic devices, used for energy storage and filtering in circuits. The etching process creates a rough surface on the foil, which enhances its capacitance when used in capacitors. This product is a critical material in the electronics industry, particularly for consumer electronics, automotive electronics, and industrial applications.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$300 million USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs)
Increased need for high-performance capacitors in EV power systems is driving demand for etched capacitor foil, particularly in markets like China and Europe.
2021-2023
Shift towards renewable energy systems
Growth in solar and wind energy projects has boosted the use of capacitors for energy storage and grid stability, indirectly increasing foil demand.
2020-2022
Miniaturization of electronics
Demand for smaller, high-capacitance components in smartphones and wearables is pushing innovation in etched foil technology.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced anti-dumping duties ranging from 6% to 12% on certain aluminum foil imports from China, including etched capacitor foil, to protect domestic producers.
October 2022
This has led to a shift in supply chains, with European buyers sourcing more from Japan and South Korea, increasing costs for capacitor manufacturers.
Japanese manufacturers have developed new etching techniques that improve the capacitance of foil by up to 15%, strengthening their market position.
March 2023
This innovation is expected to increase Japan's export share and set new industry standards for capacitor performance.
Ongoing trade disputes have led to tariffs on Chinese aluminum products in the US, prompting capacitor manufacturers to diversify suppliers.
January 2023
This has created opportunities for South Korean and European suppliers, while raising costs for US-based electronics manufacturers.