HS Code:
Seismographs (HS Code: 9015.80) are specialized instruments used to detect and record seismic waves caused by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other seismic activities. These devices are critical for geophysical research, earthquake monitoring, and resource exploration (e.g., oil and gas). The global trade of seismographs is driven by demand from scientific institutions, government agencies, and private industries involved in natural disaster preparedness and resource extraction. Trade patterns are influenced by technological advancements, regional seismic activity, and government funding for disaster management.
Total Trade Volume
USD 250 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 70 million
28% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 50 million
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 40 million
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 30 million
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 20 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA)
Increased demand for advanced digital seismographs
Driven by the need for real-time data in earthquake-prone regions, boosting trade in high-tech equipment
2021-2022
Growth in seismic monitoring for energy exploration
Rising use of seismographs in oil and gas exploration, particularly in the Middle East and North America
2020-2022
Government investments in disaster preparedness
Increased imports by countries in seismic zones like Indonesia and Chile for national monitoring networks
2019-2022
Tariffs imposed on Chinese-made components for seismographs have increased production costs for US manufacturers, affecting export competitiveness.
Mid-2022
Potential price increases for end-users and shifts in supply chains to other Asian countries like South Korea.
The European Union announced a €50 million fund to enhance seismic monitoring infrastructure across member states, boosting demand for seismographs.
Early 2023
Increased imports from leading manufacturers in Germany and France, strengthening intra-EU trade.
A Japanese firm introduced a new line of lightweight, AI-powered portable seismographs, gaining traction in global markets.
Late 2022
Expected to drive export growth from Japan, particularly to developing nations with limited infrastructure.