HS Code:
Reflective triangular warning signs for road use, typically classified under HS Code 8310.00 (sign-plates, name-plates, address-plates and similar plates, numbers, letters and other symbols, of base metal), are essential safety devices used globally to alert drivers of potential hazards or road conditions. These signs are made with reflective materials to ensure visibility under low-light conditions and are mandatory in many countries for motor vehicles as part of emergency kits. The global trade of these products is driven by road safety regulations, automotive industry growth, and infrastructure development. This category also includes portable warning triangles used by motorists during breakdowns or accidents.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and ITC Trade Map
$60 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
13.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-USMCA or in WTO member countries with MFN status)
Increased demand due to stricter road safety regulations
Countries in Africa and Asia-Pacific are mandating warning triangles in vehicles, boosting import volumes by 15% annually since 2020.
2020-2022
Shift towards lightweight and eco-friendly materials
Manufacturers are adopting recyclable plastics and LED-enhanced reflective signs, increasing production costs but appealing to environmentally conscious markets.
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce for automotive accessories
Direct-to-consumer sales of warning signs through online platforms have risen by 20%, particularly in North America and Europe.
2022
The European Union revised its ECE R27 regulation, mandating higher reflectivity and durability standards for warning triangles to improve nighttime visibility.
January 2023
Non-compliant products face market access restrictions, pushing exporters to upgrade manufacturing processes, potentially increasing costs by 10-15%.
Post-COVID recovery has seen Chinese manufacturers ramp up production of reflective warning signs, capturing additional market share in Southeast Asia and Africa.
March 2023
Increased competition for smaller exporters, with price reductions of up to 8% observed in key markets.
Under the USMCA trade agreement, tariffs on reflective warning signs between the US, Mexico, and Canada have been reduced to 0% for certified products.
July 2022
Trade volume among USMCA countries has increased by 12%, benefiting North American manufacturers and distributors.