HS Code:
The 'Other Storage Units' category (HS Code: 8471.70.90) encompasses various data storage devices that are not classified under specific subcategories like hard disk drives or solid-state drives. This includes optical storage devices, tape drives, and other miscellaneous storage solutions used in computing and data management systems. These units are critical components in IT infrastructure, data centers, and personal computing, facilitating data backup, archiving, and retrieval across industries.
Total Trade Volume
USD 5.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Shift towards cloud storage solutions
Decreasing demand for physical storage units as businesses adopt cloud-based data management, though niche markets for secure offline storage persist.
2021-2022
Rising demand for archival storage
Increased need for long-term data preservation in industries like healthcare and finance drives demand for tape drives and optical storage.
2022
Sustainability concerns
Growing emphasis on energy-efficient storage solutions and recycling programs for obsolete devices influences production and trade policies.
2022-2023
Escalating tariffs and export controls between the US and China have disrupted supply chains for other storage units, with additional costs passed on to consumers.
Mid-2022
Increased prices and supply chain diversification efforts by manufacturers.
New EU directives mandate higher recycling rates for electronic storage devices, pushing manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices.
January 2023
Higher compliance costs but improved market access for eco-friendly products.
Major tech companies have introduced next-generation tape storage with higher capacities, targeting data centers and archival needs.
Late 2022
Revived interest in tape storage solutions, boosting trade in this segment.