HS Code:
Spiegeleisen (HS Code: 7201.50) is a type of pig iron containing a high percentage of manganese, typically used in the production of steel to introduce manganese and improve the strength and durability of the final product. It is a critical raw material in the metallurgical industry, often sourced from iron ore with high manganese content. Spiegeleisen plays a vital role in adjusting the chemical composition of steel during manufacturing, particularly in the Bessemer and open-hearth processes.
Total Trade Volume
1.2 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
450,000 metric tons
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
300,000 metric tons
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
200,000 metric tons
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
150,000 metric tons
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
100,000 metric tons
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing nations to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-South Africa Trade Agreement)
Rising demand for high-strength steel
Increased demand for spiegeleisen as a key additive in steel production, particularly in automotive and construction industries.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable mining practices
Higher production costs due to stricter environmental regulations in major exporting countries like South Africa and Australia.
2020-2022
Geopolitical disruptions in Eastern Europe
Reduced supply from Ukraine due to ongoing conflict, leading to higher prices and supply chain diversification efforts.
2022
South Africa announced the expansion of manganese mining operations to meet growing global demand for spiegeleisen, with new projects expected to boost output by 10% annually.
March 2023
Likely to stabilize global supply and potentially lower prices in the short term.
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring lower carbon footprints for imported raw materials like spiegeleisen, affecting exporters from high-emission regions.
January 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters, potentially shifting trade flows towards greener producers.
Ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to a significant reduction in spiegeleisen exports, with major steel producers seeking alternative suppliers.
February 2022 - ongoing
Increased prices and supply shortages in Europe, prompting greater reliance on South African and Australian exports.