HS Code:
Zinc plates, sheets, strip, and foil (HS Code: 7905) encompass flat-rolled products made of zinc, used primarily in construction, automotive, and industrial applications. These products are valued for their corrosion resistance, often used as protective coatings (galvanization) for steel, in roofing materials, and in battery production. This category includes both pure zinc products and zinc alloy variants, with varying thicknesses and forms tailored to specific industrial needs. Global trade in this category is influenced by industrial demand, raw material availability, and environmental regulations concerning zinc mining and processing.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Korea FTA)
Rising demand for galvanized steel in construction
Increased trade volumes for zinc sheets and plates, especially in Asia-Pacific regions due to urbanization and infrastructure projects.
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable production methods
Higher production costs but improved market access in regions with strict environmental regulations like the EU.
2020-2022
Fluctuating zinc raw material prices
Volatility in trade volumes and pricing strategies, affecting long-term contracts and supply chains.
2022-2023
The European Union introduced provisional anti-dumping duties ranging from 7.5% to 12% on zinc sheets and plates from China to protect domestic producers.
March 2023
Likely to reduce Chinese exports to the EU, redirecting trade flows to other markets like Southeast Asia.
The US Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has spurred demand for zinc-coated steel in construction and transportation projects.
November 2021
Increased imports of zinc plates and sheets into the US, benefiting exporters like South Korea and Germany.
China implemented stricter export controls on zinc products to prioritize domestic supply amid energy constraints and environmental targets.
October 2022
Global supply shortages and price hikes, pushing buyers to alternative suppliers like Belgium and Australia.