HS Code:
The category for inspecting masks (other than photomasks) used in manufacturing semiconductor devices and for measuring surface particulate contamination on semiconductor devices falls under HS Code 9031.41.00. This category includes specialized optical instruments and apparatus designed for quality control and precision measurement in the semiconductor industry. These tools are critical for ensuring the integrity of semiconductor wafers and masks during production, detecting defects, and maintaining high manufacturing standards. The global trade of these instruments is driven by the growing demand for semiconductors in electronics, automotive, and telecommunication sectors.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 400 million
33.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 300 million
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
8.0% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0.0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Rising demand for semiconductor inspection tools due to 5G and IoT growth
Increased trade volume as manufacturers scale up production of advanced chips, driving demand for inspection and contamination measurement tools
2021-2022
Technological advancements in inspection systems
Adoption of AI and machine learning in defect detection is boosting the market for high-precision instruments, with higher export value per unit
2022
Supply chain diversification
Countries are investing in domestic semiconductor production, leading to a broader distribution of trade for inspection tools across new markets
2020-2022
The US passed the CHIPS and Science Act, allocating funds to enhance domestic semiconductor manufacturing, increasing demand for inspection tools.
August 2022
Significant rise in imports of inspection equipment to the US, benefiting exporters like Japan and South Korea.
The European Union announced initiatives to double its share of global semiconductor production by 2030, spurring investments in manufacturing infrastructure.
February 2022
Growing market for inspection tools in Europe, with Germany and the Netherlands as key hubs.
The US and allies imposed stricter export controls on advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment to certain countries for national security reasons.
October 2022
Shift in trade patterns, with reduced exports to restricted regions and redirection to allied markets.