Lead; waste and scrap

HS code 7802 covers lead and lead waste and scrap. Lead is a dense, malleable, and corrosion-resistant metal that has been used in a wide range of applications for centuries. The lead industry plays a crucial role in the global economy, providing essential materials for industries such as automotive, construction, and electronics. As a highly recyclable material, the trade and management of lead waste and scrap are also significant economic activities.

The primary production technique for lead is smelting, which involves extracting the metal from its ore. Lead ore is first crushed and concentrated, then heated in a furnace to separate the lead from impurities. The molten lead is then cast into ingots or other shapes for further processing. Recycling is also a major source of lead, with lead-acid batteries being the most common recycled lead product.

The main inputs required for the lead industry include lead ore, such as galena (lead sulfide), as well as various fuels and fluxes used in the smelting process. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized equipment and machinery for mining, processing, and refining lead. Energy, in the form of electricity or fossil fuels, is another crucial input for the various stages of lead production.

The primary output of the lead industry is refined lead metal, which is used in a variety of applications, including the production of 8507 lead-acid batteries, 8703 automotive parts, and 8544 electrical cables and wiring. Lead waste and scrap, which are also covered under HS code 7802, can be recycled and reused in the production of new lead products, contributing to the circular economy.