HS Code:
The category 'Having an outside diameter less than 38.1 mm' typically falls under specific Harmonized System (HS) codes related to metal products, such as pipes, tubes, or fittings, often used in industries like construction, automotive, and manufacturing. This category includes products made of steel, aluminum, or other metals with a diameter below 38.1 mm (1.5 inches). These products are critical for applications requiring precision and durability in smaller dimensions, such as hydraulic systems, instrumentation, and structural frameworks. Global trade in this category is influenced by industrial demand, raw material availability, and trade policies on metal goods.
Total Trade Volume
USD 12.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 3.8 billion
30.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.1 billion
16.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.9 billion
15.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.2 billion
9.6% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
USD 0.9 billion
7.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for lightweight materials
Increased use of aluminum tubes over steel in automotive and aerospace industries due to fuel efficiency needs, driving trade growth in aluminum-specific products.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable production
Growing preference for recycled metal products, influencing exporters to adopt green certifications, impacting cost structures and trade competitiveness.
2020-2022
Regionalization of supply chains
Post-COVID supply chain disruptions have led to nearshoring, with North American and European countries sourcing more from regional suppliers rather than Asia, affecting trade patterns.
2021-2023
The United States introduced a 10% additional tariff on specific metal products, including tubes with diameters less than 38.1 mm, citing unfair trade practices and overcapacity in Chinese markets.
March 2023
Likely to reduce Chinese exports to the US while increasing costs for American importers; potential shift of trade to other suppliers like South Korea or Mexico.
The European Union launched a policy framework incentivizing low-carbon steel production, affecting trade in small-diameter steel tubes by imposing stricter environmental standards on imports.
July 2023
Exporters from countries with high-emission production processes may face reduced market access in the EU, benefiting producers with sustainable practices.
India's massive infrastructure development projects have increased demand for small-diameter metal tubes, leading to a surge in imports from China and South Korea.
September 2023
Strengthens trade flows from Asian exporters to India, potentially offsetting losses in Western markets due to tariffs and restrictions.