HS Code:
The 'Machine guns' category, classified under HS Code 9301.10 (Military weapons, other than revolvers, pistols, and the arms of heading 93.07), encompasses automatic firearms designed for sustained fire, typically used in military and defense applications. This category includes submachine guns, light machine guns, and heavy machine guns, which are subject to strict international regulations due to their potential for use in conflict and security operations. Trade in this category is heavily influenced by geopolitical dynamics, defense budgets, and international arms control agreements.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 450 million
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 300 million
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
15.3%
Highest Rate
35% (imposed by certain countries under national security clauses)
Lowest Rate
0% (under specific defense trade agreements like NATO)
Increased demand for lightweight and modular machine guns
Manufacturers are focusing on advanced materials and customizable designs to meet modern warfare needs, driving innovation and market growth.
2021-2022
Rising defense budgets in Asia-Pacific
Countries like India and South Korea are increasing procurement of machine guns, contributing to a shift in market share toward Asian markets.
2020-2022
Stricter international regulations
Compliance with arms control treaties has slowed trade in certain regions, increasing costs for exporters due to licensing and monitoring requirements.
2019-2022
The United States introduced tighter export controls on military-grade firearms, including machine guns, to prevent proliferation to conflict zones.
March 2023
Likely to reduce U.S. exports to certain regions, redirecting trade flows to other major exporters like Russia and China.
The European Union updated its arms embargo list, imposing stricter controls on machine gun exports to specific Middle Eastern countries.
January 2023
European exporters may face reduced market access in affected regions, potentially benefiting competitors from non-EU countries.
Several manufacturers unveiled new machine gun models with integrated smart technology for enhanced targeting and reduced weight.
June 2022
Expected to drive demand among technologically advanced militaries, particularly in NATO countries.