HS Code:
The category 'Sands (other than natural) containing by weight 95 percent or more of silica and not more than 0.6 percent of oxide of iron' (HS Code: 2505.10) refers to processed or synthetic silica sands that meet specific purity standards. These sands are primarily used in industrial applications such as glass manufacturing, foundry casting, ceramics, and as a raw material in the production of silicon for electronics. The high silica content and low iron oxide ensure minimal impurities, making this category critical for high-quality production processes.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 320 million
26.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 180 million
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 120 million
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 90 million
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
8.0% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0.0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for high-purity silica sand in electronics
Increased trade volume due to growth in semiconductor and solar panel production
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable mining practices
Higher production costs but improved market access in eco-conscious regions like the EU
2020-2022
Regionalization of supply chains
Reduced dependency on long-distance imports, affecting traditional exporters like Australia
2022
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring silica sand suppliers to adhere to stricter environmental and labor standards, impacting exporters from non-compliant regions.
June 2023
Potential increase in production costs for non-EU suppliers but improved market access for compliant exporters.
A bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on industrial sands between the US and China, boosting trade volumes for this category.
March 2023
Increased exports from the US to China, benefiting American producers.
Australia announced investments in new high-purity silica sand mining projects to meet growing Asian demand.
September 2022
Expected to solidify Australia’s position as a key exporter in the Asia-Pacific region.