HS Code:
Zinc waste and scrap (HS Code: 790200) includes residues, dross, and scrap materials of zinc, which are primarily recycled for use in various industries such as construction, automotive, and manufacturing. These materials are collected from industrial processes, end-of-life products, and other sources, playing a critical role in the circular economy by reducing the need for virgin zinc extraction. Global trade in zinc waste and scrap is driven by the demand for cost-effective raw materials in zinc production and stringent environmental regulations promoting recycling.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$250 million USD
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$180 million USD
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$120 million USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$90 million USD
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
3.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
8% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for environmental recycling incentives)
Growing demand for recycled materials
Increased trade volume as industries shift towards sustainable practices and cost-effective raw materials amid rising zinc prices.
2021-2023
Stringent environmental regulations
Countries are imposing stricter controls on scrap quality, leading to higher compliance costs but also fostering cleaner recycling processes.
2020-2022
Technological advancements in recycling
Improved recovery rates and quality of recycled zinc are boosting market confidence and encouraging cross-border trade.
2019-2023
The European Union updated its Circular Economy Action Plan, emphasizing stricter controls on waste exports and promoting recycling of critical materials like zinc scrap.
March 2023
Likely to reduce EU exports of zinc waste to non-OECD countries while increasing intra-EU trade and recycling investments.
China relaxed certain restrictions on high-quality zinc scrap imports to meet domestic demand for raw materials in its manufacturing sector.
January 2022
Increased imports into China, benefiting exporters like the US and Germany, and driving up global trade volumes.
The United States introduced tariff exemptions for zinc scrap imports from certain allied countries under environmental and trade agreements.
June 2022
Boosted imports from countries like Canada and the EU, strengthening bilateral trade ties and supporting recycling initiatives.