HS Code:
The category of Explosives; pyrotechnic products; matches; pyrophoric alloys; certain combustible preparations (HS Code: 36) includes a range of products such as industrial explosives, fireworks, safety matches, and pyrophoric materials used for ignition. These products are critical in industries like mining, construction, and entertainment, as well as in safety applications. Due to their hazardous nature, trade in this category is heavily regulated with stringent safety, storage, and transportation requirements under international agreements like the UN Model Regulations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. Global trade is influenced by demand in mining and infrastructure projects, as well as cultural use of fireworks in celebrations.
Total Trade Volume
USD 5.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
6.5%
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries for safety and domestic industry protection)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Rising demand for industrial explosives in mining and infrastructure
Increased trade volume in regions with significant mining activities like Africa and Latin America, driving export growth for major producers like China and the US
2021-2022
Growing popularity of eco-friendly fireworks
Shift in consumer preference towards low-emission and less noisy pyrotechnics, prompting innovation and new market segments in Europe and North America
2020-2022
Stringent regulations on hazardous goods transport
Higher compliance costs and delays in supply chains, particularly affecting smaller exporters unable to meet safety standards
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter safety and labeling requirements for explosives and pyrotechnic products to reduce accidents and environmental impact.
March 2023
Increased production costs for manufacturers exporting to the EU, but improved market access for compliant companies with safer products.
China reported a 20% increase in fireworks exports ahead of global festive seasons, driven by demand from the US and India.
October 2022
Strengthened China's dominance in the pyrotechnics market, though raised concerns over supply chain bottlenecks during peak seasons.
The US introduced a 10% tariff on specific industrial explosives from non-FTA countries to protect domestic manufacturers.
January 2023
Potential cost increase for US importers and redirection of trade flows towards FTA partners like Canada and Mexico.