Loading...
SITCSection 5
U.S. imports of silicates and commercial alkali metal silicates (SITC 52383) totaled $3.3M in April 2026, traded with 23 countries.
Importers of Silicates and Commercial Alkali Metal Silicates paid $288K in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 17% on $1.7M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule.
Last updated: April 2026 dataAlkali metal silicates — principally sodium silicate (water glass) and potassium silicate — serve as binders, adhesives, and deflocculants across detergent manufacturing, paper production, construction materials, and foundry casting. The distinction between chemically defined silicates and commercial-grade water glass affects classification, as commercial grades are typically sold as aqueous solutions with varying SiO₂-to-alkali ratios rather than as pure compounds. Lithium silicate, used in concrete densifiers and specialty coatings, occupies a separate niche within this heading.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
The ratio itself does not create a separate tariff line within this SITC heading, but it is commercially significant because different ratios (e.g., 2.0, 2.5, or 3.3 modulus) are specified for distinct end uses such as detergents versus foundry binders. Importers should document the grade and concentration on the commercial invoice to support accurate classification and avoid disputes at entry.
The largest consuming sectors are detergent and soap manufacturing (where sodium silicate acts as a builder and corrosion inhibitor), paper and board production (as a sizing and coating agent), and construction chemicals (concrete sealers and refractory cements). Foundry and investment-casting operations also rely on silicate binders for mold-making.
Supplier Network
Get discovered by U.S. importers searching for HS 52383 — Silicates and Commercial Alkali Metal Silicates. Be the first supplier listed.
Monthly import values over time