HS Code:
The signaling equipment category (HS Code: 8530) includes electrical apparatus for signaling, safety, or traffic control equipment for railways, tramways, roads, inland waterways, parking facilities, port installations, or airfields. This encompasses items such as traffic lights, railway signals, and airport runway lighting systems. These products are critical for infrastructure development and safety across various transportation sectors.
Total Trade Volume
USD 5.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 1.3 billion
25.0% of total trade
Increasing
USD 800 million
15.4% of total trade
Stable
USD 650 million
12.5% of total trade
Increasing
USD 450 million
8.7% of total trade
Stable
USD 400 million
7.7% of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.8%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Increased demand for smart signaling systems
Driven by urbanization and smart city initiatives, there is a growing need for IoT-integrated signaling equipment, boosting trade volumes in advanced economies.
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable and energy-efficient solutions
Manufacturers are focusing on LED-based signaling equipment to reduce energy consumption, influencing export patterns towards eco-friendly products.
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions
Trade flows have been affected by export restrictions and raw material shortages, particularly impacting Asian exporters.
2022
The European Union has introduced stricter environmental regulations under the Green Deal, mandating energy-efficient signaling systems for transportation infrastructure.
March 2023
This has increased demand for compliant products from European manufacturers while raising compliance costs for non-EU exporters.
The US Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has allocated significant funding for upgrading transportation signaling systems, with a 'Buy American' provision.
November 2021
This has led to a surge in domestic production and reduced imports from certain countries.
China continues to export large volumes of signaling equipment as part of infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia.
January 2023
This has solidified Chinaโs position as the leading exporter while creating new trade routes and dependencies.