Iron ores and concentrates; non-agglomerated

HS code 260111 covers the classification of non-agglomerated iron ores and concentrates. This industry is a crucial component of the global steel production supply chain, providing the essential raw material for the manufacture of a wide range of steel products. Iron ore is a vital resource, underpinning the construction, automotive, and machinery industries, among others, making it a significant contributor to economic development worldwide.

The production of non-agglomerated iron ore typically involves the mining and processing of iron-rich mineral deposits. This process often begins with the extraction of the ore from open-pit or underground mines, followed by crushing, screening, and beneficiation techniques to concentrate the iron content and remove impurities. The resulting iron ore concentrate is then ready for use in steelmaking and other industrial applications.

The main inputs required for the production of non-agglomerated iron ore include the iron-rich mineral deposits, mining and processing equipment, energy sources (such as electricity or diesel fuel), and water for various processing steps. Additionally, the industry relies on transportation infrastructure, such as railways and ports, to move the raw materials and finished products to domestic and international markets.

The primary output of HS code 260111 is non-agglomerated iron ore, which is then consumed by the 720110 Pig iron and spiegeleisen in pigs, blocks or other primary forms and 720310 Ferrous products obtained by direct reduction of iron ore and other spongy ferrous products, in lumps, pellets or similar forms industries for the production of pig iron, direct reduced iron, and other intermediate steel products. These outputs are essential inputs for the 7202 Ferro-alloys and 72 Iron and steel industries, which manufacture a wide range of steel-based goods.