HS Code:
Profile shapes, categorized under various HS Codes such as 7216 (angles, shapes, and sections of iron or non-alloy steel) and 7604 (aluminum bars, rods, and profiles), encompass a wide range of structural and architectural components used in construction, manufacturing, and industrial applications. These products include items like beams, channels, angles, and other custom shapes made from materials such as steel, aluminum, and other metals. They are critical in building infrastructure, machinery, and vehicles, and their trade is influenced by global construction demand, raw material availability, and industrial production levels.
Total Trade Volume
USD 25.3 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by certain developing countries on steel profiles)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable materials
Increased trade in aluminum profiles and recycled steel shapes due to environmental regulations and green building initiatives.
2021-2022
Growth in infrastructure projects
Higher export volumes from major producers like China to support large-scale construction in developing economies.
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions
Delays and cost increases due to raw material shortages and geopolitical tensions affecting steel and aluminum supply.
2021-2023
The United States adjusted Section 232 tariffs on steel imports, maintaining quotas but offering exemptions for certain allies, impacting profile shapes trade.
March 2022
Reduced costs for imports from EU and Japan, potentially increasing trade volumes from these regions.
China implemented export rebates cuts and restrictions on steel products, including profile shapes, to focus on domestic supply and environmental goals.
August 2021
Reduced global supply from China, leading to higher prices and opportunities for other exporters like South Korea and India.
The European Union introduced stricter carbon border adjustment mechanisms affecting steel and aluminum profile imports.
July 2023
Increased costs for non-compliant exporters, pushing demand for sustainably produced profiles.