Globes; printed

HS code 490510 covers the import and export of printed globes, a critical component in the education and geographic information industries. Globes provide a visual representation of the world, offering a unique perspective on the Earth's landmasses, oceans, and political boundaries. They are widely used in schools, universities, government agencies, and households, serving as essential tools for teaching, research, and personal enrichment.

The production of printed globes typically involves a multi-step process. First, the globe's surface is created using a variety of materials, such as paper, plastic, or a composite. The surface is then printed with detailed cartographic information, including country boundaries, major cities, and other geographic features. The printing process may utilize techniques such as offset printing, digital printing, or screen printing, depending on the desired quality and production volume.

The main inputs required for the production of printed globes include raw materials like paper, plastic, or composite materials, as well as printing inks, adhesives, and specialized machinery. Manufacturers may also require access to high-quality cartographic data and geographic information systems (GIS) to ensure the accuracy and detail of the printed content. Additionally, skilled labor, such as graphic designers, cartographers, and printing technicians, are essential for the production of these educational and informational tools.

The primary output of HS code 490510 is printed globes, which are consumed by a variety of end-users, including 853120 Educational institutions, 851762 Government agencies, and 950300 Households. These globes may also be used as inputs for the production of other educational materials, such as 490700 Maps and hydrographic or similar charts, 950430 Toys, and 950440 (Other toys; reduced-size ('scale') models and similar recreational models, working or not).