HS Code:
The Lead content category, primarily classified under HS Code 7801 (unwrought lead) and related subcategories, includes raw lead, lead alloys, and lead products used in various industrial applications such as batteries, construction materials, and radiation shielding. Lead is a critical material in the global economy due to its unique properties like corrosion resistance and high density. This category also encompasses recycled lead, reflecting a significant portion of trade due to environmental regulations encouraging recycling over mining. Global trade in lead content is influenced by industrial demand, environmental policies, and fluctuations in mining output.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $5.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & World Trade Organization (WTO)
$1.1 billion USD
21% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$900 million USD
17% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$750 million USD
14% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$600 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$450 million USD
9% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
3.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (imposed by certain developing countries on imported lead to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA for unwrought lead)
Increased demand for lead-acid batteries
Driven by growth in renewable energy storage and automotive sectors, particularly in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, leading to a 15% rise in trade volume for lead content since 2020.
2022
Shift towards recycled lead
Stringent environmental regulations in Europe and North America have boosted trade in recycled lead, accounting for nearly 60% of total lead supply in these regions.
2021
Decline in primary lead mining
Reduced output in countries like Peru due to resource depletion and regulatory hurdles has shifted reliance to secondary (recycled) lead, affecting global supply chains.
2022
The European Union introduced stricter limits on lead usage in consumer products under the REACH regulation, mandating lower lead content thresholds and enhanced recycling targets.
June 2023
This is expected to reduce imports of non-compliant lead products while increasing demand for certified recycled lead from within the EU.
A new bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on unwrought lead between the US and China as part of broader trade negotiations, aiming to stabilize supply for battery manufacturing.
March 2023
This has led to a 10% increase in lead exports from China to the US, benefiting manufacturers but raising concerns over environmental standards.
Australia announced investments in sustainable lead mining operations to meet growing global demand, with new projects expected to come online by 2025.
September 2023
This could reinforce Australia’s position as the leading exporter, potentially lowering global lead prices by increasing supply.