HS Code:
Unwrought lead, classified under HS Code 7801, includes lead in its primary form, not alloyed or processed into specific shapes. This category primarily consists of lead bullion, ingots, and other raw forms used as inputs for manufacturing batteries, cables, and radiation shielding materials. It is a critical material in industries such as automotive, construction, and energy storage, with significant environmental and recycling considerations due to lead's toxicity.
Total Trade Volume
2.5 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Lead Association
500,000 metric tons
20% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
450,000 metric tons
18% of global trade of total trade
Stable
300,000 metric tons
12% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
250,000 metric tons
10% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
200,000 metric tons
8% of global trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
3.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing economies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU trade pacts)
Rising demand for lead-acid batteries
Increased trade volume driven by growth in automotive and renewable energy storage sectors
2021-2022
Shift towards recycled lead
Reduced primary production in some regions due to stricter environmental regulations
2020-2022
Fluctuating lead prices
Price volatility affecting trade decisions and stockpiling in key markets
2022
The European Union introduced stricter environmental standards for lead imports, requiring detailed documentation on recycling and sourcing.
June 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant countries.
China reduced export quotas for unwrought lead to prioritize domestic battery manufacturing needs.
January 2023
Tightened global supply, leading to price increases and shifts in trade patterns towards other suppliers like Australia.
The US infrastructure bill includes provisions for energy storage projects, driving up demand for lead-acid batteries.
November 2022
Increased imports of unwrought lead into the US, particularly from Mexico and Canada under USMCA.