Glass; drawn and blown, in sheets, (other than glass coloured throughout the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed or having an absorbent, reflecting or non-reflecting layer)

HS code 700490 covers a wide range of flat glass products that are drawn or blown into sheets. These glass sheets are used in a variety of applications, from construction and automotive industries to furniture and home decor. The production and trade of these glass products play a significant role in the global economy, with the industry generating substantial revenue and employment opportunities worldwide.

The production of glass sheets under HS code 700490 primarily involves two main techniques: drawing and blowing. In the drawing process, molten glass is pulled through a die to create thin, uniform sheets. The blowing technique, on the other hand, involves inflating a glass bubble, which is then flattened to create the desired sheet. These production methods allow for the creation of high-quality, versatile glass sheets that can be further processed or used in their raw form.

The production of glass sheets under HS code 700490 requires several key inputs, including high-quality raw materials such as silica sand, soda ash, and limestone. Additionally, specialized machinery and equipment, such as glass furnaces, drawing or blowing machines, and annealing ovens, are essential for the manufacturing process. Energy sources, such as natural gas or electricity, are also crucial for powering the production facilities.

The glass sheets produced under HS code 700490 are used in a wide range of applications, including 700510 Glass; float glass and surface ground or polished glass, in sheets, but not otherwise worked, 700521 Glass; float glass and surface ground or polished glass, in sheets, but not otherwise worked, of a thickness not exceeding 3.5 mm, and 700529 Glass; float glass and surface ground or polished glass, in sheets, but not otherwise worked, of a thickness exceeding 3.5 mm. These glass sheets can be further processed, coated, or laminated to meet specific requirements in various industries, such as construction, automotive, and home appliances.