Cutlery; (e.g. spoons, forks, ladles, skimmers, cake-servers, fish-knives, butter-knives, sugar tongs and similar), plated with precious metal, not in sets

HS code 821591 covers a wide range of cutlery items, including spoons, forks, ladles, skimmers, cake-servers, fish-knives, butter-knives, and sugar tongs, that are plated with precious metal. This industry plays a crucial role in the global tableware and kitchenware market, catering to the needs of households, restaurants, and other food service establishments. The production and trade of these high-quality cutlery items contribute significantly to the overall import/export economy.

The production of cutlery items under HS code 821591 typically involves a multi-step process. First, the base metal, such as stainless steel or silver, is shaped and formed into the desired cutlery shape using techniques like stamping, casting, or forging. The cutlery pieces are then carefully plated with a thin layer of precious metal, such as gold or silver, to enhance their appearance and durability. Finally, the plated cutlery may undergo additional finishing processes, such as polishing or engraving, to achieve the desired aesthetic and functional qualities.

The main inputs required for the production of cutlery under HS code 821591 include base metals, precious metals for plating, and specialized machinery for shaping, forming, and plating the cutlery. Manufacturers may also require various tools and equipment for finishing processes, as well as skilled labor to ensure the quality and precision of the final products.

The primary outputs of the industry covered by HS code 821591 are high-quality, precious metal-plated cutlery items, such as spoons, forks, ladles, and other serving utensils. These products are often used in formal dining settings, luxury hotels, and high-end restaurants. The output of this industry may be consumed by other HS codes, such as 8215 Tableware, kitchenware, other household articles and toilet articles, of base metal; and parts thereof of base metal, 7114 Articles of goldsmiths' or silversmiths' wares and parts thereof, of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal, and 9405 Lamps and lighting fittings including searchlights and spotlights and parts thereof, not elsewhere specified or included; illuminated signs, illuminated name-plates and the like, having a permanently fixed light source, and parts thereof not elsewhere specified or included.