HS Code:
The category 'Other tubes and pipes (for example, welded, riveted or similarly closed), having circular cross sections, the external diameter of which exceeds 406.4 mm, of iron or steel' (HS Code: 7305) includes large-diameter pipes primarily used in infrastructure projects such as oil and gas pipelines, water distribution systems, and structural applications. These products are critical in industries requiring robust and durable materials for transporting fluids or supporting heavy structures. The global trade of this category is influenced by industrial demand, energy projects, and geopolitical factors affecting steel production and pricing.
Total Trade Volume
USD 12.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade or USMCA)
Increased demand for energy infrastructure
Rising global energy needs, especially for oil and gas pipelines, have boosted demand for large-diameter steel pipes, particularly in regions like the Middle East and North America.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable production
Manufacturers are adopting greener production methods to meet environmental regulations, increasing costs but also opening new markets in eco-conscious regions.
2020-2022
Fluctuating raw material prices
Volatility in iron ore and steel prices has led to unstable production costs, affecting profit margins and export competitiveness for smaller producers.
2022
The United States introduced additional tariffs on steel pipe imports from specific countries to curb dumping practices and protect domestic manufacturers.
March 2023
This has led to a shift in trade flows, with exporters redirecting shipments to markets with lower barriers, such as Southeast Asia.
The European Union launched a policy framework to incentivize low-carbon steel production, impacting the trade of steel pipes with stricter emission standards.
July 2023
Exporters to the EU must adapt to higher compliance costs, potentially reducing competitiveness for non-compliant producers.
A multi-billion-dollar pipeline project was announced in the Middle East, increasing demand for large-diameter steel pipes.
September 2023
This has spurred export opportunities for leading producers like China and South Korea, driving short-term trade volume growth.