HS Code:
Tin-free steel, classified under HS Code 7210.50.00, refers to flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width of 600 mm or more, clad, plated, or coated with chromium oxides or with chromium and chromium oxides. This material is often used as an alternative to tinplate in the production of food cans, beverage cans, and other packaging materials due to its corrosion resistance and cost-effectiveness. Tin-free steel is a critical material in industries requiring durable and lightweight packaging solutions.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $2.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$600 million USD
24% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$500 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$400 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$200 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand for sustainable packaging
Increased adoption of tin-free steel as an eco-friendly alternative to other materials due to its recyclability and lower environmental footprint.
2021-2023
Rising production costs due to raw material price volatility
Fluctuations in iron ore and energy prices have led to higher production costs, impacting profit margins for manufacturers.
2022
Technological advancements in coating processes
Innovations in chromium coating technologies have improved the durability and corrosion resistance of tin-free steel, boosting its market competitiveness.
2020-2023
The European Union imposed provisional anti-dumping duties on tin-free steel imports from certain Asian countries to protect domestic producers from unfair pricing practices.
March 2023
This could lead to a shift in trade flows, with affected exporters seeking alternative markets, potentially increasing competition in non-EU regions.
Major Japanese steel manufacturers announced investments to increase production capacity for tin-free steel to meet growing global demand for sustainable packaging materials.
July 2022
This development is expected to reinforce Japan's position as a leading exporter and stabilize supply chains for key industries.
New US regulations require stricter environmental compliance for imported steel products, including tin-free steel, focusing on carbon emissions during production.
January 2023
Exporters with high carbon footprints may face higher costs or restricted access to the US market, prompting a push for greener production methods.