Glass; cast glass and rolled glass, non-wired sheets, coloured through the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed or having an absorbent, reflecting or non-reflecting layer

HS code 700312 covers a range of specialty glass products that are widely used in various industries, including construction, automotive, and electronics. These glass sheets are characterized by their unique properties, such as coloration, opacity, and specialized coatings, which make them suitable for a variety of applications. The production and trade of these glass products play a significant role in the global economy, as they are essential components in many manufactured goods and infrastructure projects.

The production of glass sheets under HS code 700312 typically involves a combination of casting and rolling techniques. The raw materials, such as silica sand, limestone, and other mineral additives, are melted in a furnace at high temperatures. The molten glass is then either cast into molds or rolled between metal rollers to create the desired thickness and surface characteristics. Specialized coatings or tinting processes may be applied to the glass sheets to achieve the desired optical properties, such as color, opacity, or reflectivity.

The main inputs required for the production of glass sheets under HS code 700312 include silica sand, limestone, and other mineral additives, such as sodium oxide, aluminium oxide, and magnesium oxide. Specialized machinery, such as glass furnaces, casting molds, and rolling mills, are also essential for the manufacturing process. Additionally, energy sources, such as natural gas or electricity, are needed to power the high-temperature melting and shaping operations.

The primary outputs of the industry covered by HS code 700312 are various types of specialty glass sheets, including colored, opacified, flashed, or coated glass products. These glass sheets are often used in the production of 700510 Float glass and surface ground or polished glass, 701931 (Glass fibres (including glass wool) and articles thereof (for example, yarn, woven fabrics)), and 701990 Glass, other than of heading 7001; glass cubes and other glass smallwares, whether or not on a backing, for mosaics or similar decorative purposes; leaded lights and the like; multicellular or foam glass in blocks, panels, plates, shells or similar forms.