HS Code:
The Motors category, primarily classified under HS Code 8501 (Electric motors and generators) and related subcategories, encompasses a wide range of products used in industrial, automotive, and consumer applications. This category includes AC/DC motors, universal motors, and generators of various power capacities. Motors are critical components in machinery, vehicles, and appliances, driving demand across multiple sectors. Global trade in motors is influenced by industrial production levels, technological advancements in energy efficiency, and the growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).
Total Trade Volume
USD 120 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 35 billion
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 18 billion
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 15 billion
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 10 billion
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 7 billion
5.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries on imports to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Rising demand for electric vehicle motors
Significant increase in trade volume for high-efficiency motors and related components, especially in markets with EV adoption incentives.
2021-2023
Shift toward energy-efficient motors
Growing exports of motors meeting international energy efficiency standards (like IE3 and IE4), driven by regulatory mandates in the EU and North America.
2020-2022
Supply chain diversification
Manufacturers are relocating production bases to Southeast Asia and Latin America to mitigate risks from geopolitical tensions and reduce dependency on China.
2021-2023
The European Union introduced new regulations under the Ecodesign Directive, mandating higher efficiency standards for electric motors sold in the region.
July 2023
Exporters to the EU must adapt to comply with these standards, potentially increasing production costs but also creating opportunities for manufacturers of premium efficiency motors.
The United States extended tariffs on Chinese-made motors as part of ongoing trade disputes, prompting US importers to source from alternative countries like Vietnam and Mexico.
March 2023
Shift in trade flows with increased imports from non-Chinese suppliers, though costs for US consumers may rise due to limited supply capacity in alternative regions.
The ongoing shortage of semiconductors has disrupted the production of advanced motors, particularly for automotive applications, leading to delays in supply chains.
January 2022 - ongoing
Reduced export volumes from key producers like Japan and Germany, with ripple effects on industries reliant on just-in-time manufacturing.