HS Code:
Radial leads refer to a category of electronic components, often classified under HS Code 8533.40 (which includes variable resistors, including rheostats and potentiometers, with radial leads as a common configuration). These components are integral in electronic circuits for controlling voltage and current. Radial leads are characterized by their lead wires extending from the body of the component in a radial direction, making them suitable for through-hole mounting on printed circuit boards (PCBs). This category is critical in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, industrial automation, and telecommunications.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 900 million
36% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 500 million
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 300 million
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 250 million
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 200 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA or EU-Japan EPA)
Shift to Surface-Mount Technology (SMT)
Decreasing demand for radial lead components as SMT components dominate modern electronics due to smaller size and automation compatibility.
2021-2023
Growth in Automotive Electronics
Increased demand for radial lead components in automotive applications due to their durability in high-vibration environments.
2022
Sustainability Regulations
Stricter environmental regulations (e.g., EU RoHS) pushing manufacturers to produce lead-free radial components, increasing production costs.
2020-2023
The imposition of additional tariffs by the United States on Chinese electronic components, including radial leads, as part of broader trade disputes.
Mid-2022
Increased costs for US importers and potential shift of supply chains to other countries like Vietnam or Taiwan.
New EU regulations under the Green Deal framework mandate stricter compliance for electronic components, affecting radial lead manufacturing processes.
Early 2023
Higher compliance costs for exporters to the EU but potential long-term benefits in market access for eco-friendly producers.
South Korea and Japan invest heavily in R&D for hybrid radial-SMT components to bridge traditional and modern circuit designs.
Late 2022
Potential market shift towards hybrid components, affecting traditional radial lead demand.