HS Code:
Ball bearings (HS Code: 8482.10) are a type of rolling-element bearing that uses balls to maintain the separation between the bearing races. They are essential components in various machinery and automotive applications, reducing friction and supporting radial and axial loads. This category includes a wide range of ball bearings such as deep groove, angular contact, and thrust ball bearings, used in industries like automotive, aerospace, industrial machinery, and household appliances. Global trade in ball bearings is driven by demand for high-precision components in manufacturing and the growing automotive sector, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs).
Total Trade Volume
USD 15.3 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.8%
Highest Rate
12% (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 high-precision bearings in electric vehicles (EVs)
Increased production and trade in specialized bearings for EV motors and drivetrains, boosting exports from Japan and Germany
2021-2023
Automation and Industry 4.0 adoption
Growing need for durable bearings in robotics and automated machinery, driving trade in high-end markets like the US and EU
2020-2022
Shift toward sustainable manufacturing
Manufacturers adopting eco-friendly production methods, influencing trade policies and increasing costs for non-compliant exporters
2022-2023
The European Union extended anti-dumping duties on certain ball bearings from China to counteract unfairly priced imports, aiming to protect EU manufacturers.
March 2023
Increased costs for Chinese exporters, potential shift in market share to other countries like Japan and South Korea
Major Japanese bearing manufacturers announced investments in R&D for lightweight, high-efficiency bearings tailored for electric vehicles.
June 2023
Strengthens Japan’s position as a leading exporter, likely increasing trade volume in the EV sector
Ongoing US tariffs on steel imports have raised production costs for domestic bearing manufacturers, impacting competitiveness.
January 2023
Potential increase in imports from countries with lower production costs, affecting domestic market share