Zinc and articles thereof

HS code 79 covers zinc and articles made from zinc. Zinc is a versatile metal with a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. It is used in the production of galvanized steel, brass, and die-cast alloys, as well as in the manufacture of batteries, paints, and rubber products. The zinc industry plays a crucial role in the global economy, supporting various downstream industries and contributing to infrastructure development and technological innovation.

The production of zinc involves several key steps. First, zinc-containing ores are mined and processed to extract the raw zinc. This is typically done through a process of smelting, which involves heating the ore to high temperatures to separate the zinc from other impurities. The extracted zinc is then refined and cast into ingots or other forms for further processing. Zinc can also be recycled from scrap materials, reducing the need for primary zinc production.

The main inputs required for the zinc industry include zinc-containing ores, such as sphalerite and smithsonite, as well as energy sources, such as coal or natural gas, to power the smelting and refining processes. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized machinery and equipment, including furnaces, electrolytic cells, and casting equipment, to efficiently extract and process the zinc.

The primary outputs of the zinc industry are refined zinc metal and zinc-based products, such as 7901 Unwrought zinc, 7902 Zinc waste and scrap, and 7903 Zinc dust, powders, and flakes. These outputs are then consumed by a wide range of downstream industries, including the 72 Iron and steel, 74 Copper, and 85 Electrical machinery and equipment sectors, among others.