HS Code:
Fire-clay, classified under HS Code 2508.30, refers to a type of refractory clay used in the manufacture of ceramics, especially fire brick. It is heat-resistant and commonly used in industrial applications such as kilns, furnaces, and other high-temperature environments. Fire-clay is essential for industries like steel, glass, and cement production due to its ability to withstand extreme heat without deforming or cracking.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $250 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$80 million USD
32% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$45 million USD
18% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
12% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$25 million USD
10% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
8% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand in industrial sectors
Increased demand for fire-clay in steel and cement industries due to global infrastructure projects has driven trade volumes upward, especially in Asia-Pacific regions.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable sourcing
Growing emphasis on environmentally friendly extraction methods has led to higher production costs but also opened niche markets for certified sustainable fire-clay.
2020-2022
Technological advancements in refractory materials
Development of alternative synthetic refractory materials has slightly reduced demand for traditional fire-clay in some developed markets.
2019-2022
China imposed tighter export controls on fire-clay and other refractory materials to prioritize domestic industrial needs, affecting global supply chains.
March 2023
Increased prices globally and prompted buyers to seek alternative suppliers in India and Brazil.
The European Union introduced stricter environmental regulations under the Green Deal, impacting the import and processing of fire-clay with high carbon footprints.
January 2023
Higher compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant sources.
India's push for large-scale infrastructure projects has increased domestic demand for fire-clay, leading to higher export prices and reduced availability for international markets.
July 2022
Shifted trade dynamics, with smaller exporters gaining market share in regions previously supplied by India.