HS Code:
The ceramics category (HS Code: 69) encompasses a wide range of products made from clay and other inorganic, non-metallic materials, hardened by heat. This includes items like porcelain, earthenware, stoneware, and advanced ceramics used in industrial applications. Products range from household items such as tableware and sanitary ware to construction materials like tiles and bricks, as well as technical ceramics used in electronics, automotive, and aerospace industries. Global trade in ceramics is influenced by factors such as raw material availability, manufacturing costs, and consumer demand for both functional and decorative items.
Total Trade Volume
USD 100 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 35 billion
35% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 10 billion
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 8 billion
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 7 billion
7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 5 billion
5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
30% (applied by some developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU single market or USMCA)
Growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly ceramics
Increased investment in green production technologies and recyclable materials, driving innovation in the sector
2021-2023
Rise in construction activities in emerging economies
Higher demand for ceramic tiles and sanitary ware in markets like India, Africa, and Southeast Asia
2020-2022
Shift towards advanced ceramics in technology sectors
Growing use in electronics, medical devices, and renewable energy applications, boosting high-value trade
2019-2023
The European Union introduced anti-dumping tariffs ranging from 20% to 35% on ceramic tiles and tableware from China to protect local manufacturers from unfairly priced imports.
June 2023
Potential shift in trade flows, with other exporters like India and Vietnam gaining market share in Europe
Vietnam announced investments in new ceramic tile manufacturing plants, aiming to become a top global exporter by leveraging low labor costs and proximity to key markets.
March 2023
Increased competition for traditional exporters like China and Italy, potentially lowering global prices
Breakthroughs in 3D printing technology for ceramics have led to new applications in aerospace and medical industries, with companies in the US and Germany leading the charge.
September 2022
Expansion of high-value ceramic markets, creating niche opportunities for specialized exporters