HS Code:
Ingots of germanium, unwrought, each weighing 0.5 kg or more but less than 2 kg, fall under HS subheading 8112.92.60. Germanium is a rare metalloid used primarily in the production of semiconductors, infrared optics, and fiber-optic systems. Due to its specialized applications in high-tech industries, the global trade of germanium ingots is relatively niche but critical to electronics and telecommunications sectors. The trade of unwrought germanium ingots in this weight category is often driven by demand from countries with advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$20 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$8 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$3 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
8% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for WTO members in specific cases)
Rising demand for germanium in fiber-optic cables
Increased trade volume as telecommunications infrastructure expands globally, particularly in 5G networks
2021-2022
Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions
Price volatility and reduced availability from key exporters like Russia amid sanctions and trade restrictions
2022
Shift toward recycling germanium from electronic waste
Potential reduction in demand for primary unwrought germanium as secondary sources become more viable
2020-2023
In July 2023, China announced stricter export controls on germanium and other strategic metals, citing national security concerns. This follows similar restrictions on rare earth elements.
July 2023
Increased global prices and potential supply shortages for countries reliant on Chinese germanium, prompting diversification of supply chains.
The European Union introduced the Critical Raw Materials Act in 2023, listing germanium as a critical material and aiming to secure stable supply through domestic production and partnerships.
March 2023
Likely to boost trade agreements and investments in germanium mining and processing within and outside the EU.
The US CHIPS and Science Act, signed in 2022, allocates funding to enhance domestic semiconductor manufacturing, indirectly increasing demand for germanium.
August 2022
Expected rise in imports of germanium ingots to meet manufacturing needs, potentially benefiting exporters like Germany and Japan.