What is HS Code 7218?
HS Code 7218 refers to a category of stainless steel products, primarily consisting of stainless steel in ingots or other primary forms, as well as semi-finished products of stainless steel. This classification includes materials like blooms, billets, and slabs, which are vital for the production of a wide variety of stainless steel products. Known for their strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion, these semi-finished products are key in industries such as construction, automotive, and manufacturing.
The importance of HS Code 7218 in global trade lies in its role in streamlining the classification process, ensuring smooth customs procedures, and maintaining consistency across international trade transactions.
Quick Reference Table for India to US Export/Import
| HS Code | Description | General Duty |
| HS Code 7218.10 | Stainless Steel- Ingots and Other Primary Forms | Free |
| HS Code 7218.91 | Semi-Finished Products – Of Rectangular (Other Than Square) Cross-Section | Free |
| HS Code 7218.99 | Semi-Finished Products – Other Than Rectangular Cross-Section | Free |
What Goods are Covered Under HS Code 7218
HS Code 7218 broadly covers stainless steel in ingots as semi-finished products. These products are primarily used in industries such as construction, automotive, kitchenware, petrochemical, and heavy machinery due to their corrosion resistance and strength.
This code falls under Chapter 72 of the HS classification, which deals with Iron and Steel, and more specifically, stainless steel in different physical forms.
Here are some common subcategories under HS Code 7218, including their specific product types:
HS Code 7218.10: Ingots and Other Primary Forms
HS Code 7218.10 covers stainless steel ingots and other primary forms. These raw materials are typically produced through melting and solidifying stainless steel in molds, and they serve as the foundational material for manufacturing various stainless steel products. Ingots and primary forms are key in industries such as construction, automotive, and manufacturing.
HS Code 7218.91: Semi-Finished Products – Of Rectangular (Other Than Square) Cross-Section
HS Code 7218.91 applies to semi-finished stainless steel products with a rectangular cross-section. These products are typically used in the production of stainless steel plates, sheets, or strips that are further processed into finished goods. They are critical for applications where strength and resistance to corrosion are required, such as in structural components and machinery.
Includes:
- Billets, blooms, and slabs that are hot-rolled but not yet finished products
- Typically used in further hot rolling, forging, or extrusion.
HS Code 7218.99: Semi-Finished Products – Other Than Rectangular Cross-Section
HS Code 7218.99 includes stainless steel semi-finished products that do not have a rectangular cross-section. This category encompasses products like round billets or blooms, which are used in the manufacturing of various stainless steel items, including pipes, bars, and rods. These materials are essential in industries that require precision and high-performance materials.
Navigating the complexities of exporting goods to the United States is no small feat. With Intoglo’s USA Export Navigator, you gain access to:
- USA Port Map
- Smart Route Planner
- USA Holidays and Long Weekends in 2025
- USA Road Freight Limits.
This tool is designed to streamline the export process and ensure smooth shipments to U.S. ports. To complement the tools above and further simplify your export process, Intoglo offers the HS Code Lookup and Finder tool. This essential feature helps you quickly identify the accurate Harmonized System (HS) codes for your products and understand the corresponding tariffs.
Make your U.S. export operations seamless and efficient with Intoglo’s complete export toolkit!
Trade and Market Statistics
This section provides an overview of the global stainless steel trade, highlighting the leading exporters and importers, as well as key market shares and trends.
Top Exporters of Stainless Steel 2024
This section focuses on the leading exporters of stainless steel by volume, value, and global market share. The data highlights key players and their significant contributions to the global market.
By Volume:
China remains a dominant exporter of stainless steel, with substantial growth recorded in 2024. Key destinations for Chinese stainless steel include Vietnam, India, Russia, and Turkey.
| Country | Export Volume (Tonnes) | Percentage of China’s Total Exports |
| Vietnam | 463,100 | 9.18% |
| India | 449,700 | 8.92% |
| Russia | 382,000 | 7.57% |
| Turkey | 362,000 | 7.18% |
By Value:
The following data showcases the top exporters based on export value for stainless steel in 2023.
| Country | Export Value (USD) | Percentage of Global Exports |
| Indonesia | $2.8 billion | 54.1% |
| United Kingdom | $783.9 million | 14.9% |
| Sweden | $335.4 million | 6.4% |
| Italy | $188.8 million | 3.6% |
| Germany | $167.2 million | 3.2% |
Global Market Share 2023-2024:
India, China, and Vietnam represent the leading exporters globally in terms of market share.
| Country | Market Share |
| India | 36% |
| China | 25% |
| Vietnam | 19% |
These countries and manufacturers play a pivotal role in shaping the global stainless steel market through their production capacity and export strategies.
Top Importers of Stainless Steel (2023- 2024)
This section presents insights into the leading countries importing stainless steel, with a focus on the global leaders and regional trends.
The following countries are recognized as the top importers of stainless steel globally.
| Country | Shipments | Key Suppliers |
| Vietnam | 3,389,870 | India, China, and other suppliers |
| United States | 1,814,305 | Canada, Brazil, Mexico |
| India | 1,475,966 | – |
Regional Insights
- India: In FY2024, India imported approximately 2.8 million metric tons of alloy and stainless steel, reflecting a significant increase compared to previous years. The rising demand is driven by trade agreements with ASEAN and FTA nations.
- United States: The U.S. imported 28.86 million net tons of steel in 2024, with key suppliers including Canada (6.56 million NT), Brazil (4.49 million NT), and Mexico (3.52 million NT).
Interested in Shipping Stainless from India to the USA?
For Indian exporters looking to ship stainless steel to the USA, Intoglo offers a seamless door-to-door FCL shipping solution from India to the USA. With a deep understanding of the global market and dedicated support for U.S. imports, Intoglo ensures timely, cost-effective deliveries.
The growing demand for stainless steel in industries like construction and automotive presents significant opportunities for Indian exporters to expand their reach in the U.S. market, making it the perfect time to leverage reliable shipping solutions.
FAQs
1. What is HS Code 7218 and what does it cover?
A: HS Code 7218 refers to stainless steel in ingots or other primary forms, as well as semi-finished products made from stainless steel. This category includes products like ingots, blooms, billets, and slabs, which are essential for manufacturing various stainless steel goods.
2. How do I find the right HS Code for my products?
A: To find the correct HS Code for your products, you can use an HS Code lookup and finder tool. This tool helps identify the accurate codes and tariffs associated with your goods, ensuring smooth customs clearance and compliance with international trade regulations.
3. Which countries are the top exporters of stainless steel?
A: The top exporters of stainless steel include China, India, and Vietnam. These countries dominate the market by both volume and value, with significant contributions from major manufacturers like Baosteel Group, POSCO, and Aperam.
4. What are the major ports for stainless steel exports to the USA?
A: Key ports for importing stainless steel into the USA include Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York, and Houston. These ports handle the majority of shipments, making them essential hubs for stainless steel and other steel product imports.
5. What is the global demand for stainless steel?
A: The global demand for stainless steel is driven by industries such as automotive, construction, and manufacturing, with high demand from regions like North America, Europe, and Asia. The material’s strength, corrosion resistance, and versatility make it an essential part of modern industrial applications.
Leave a comment