SITCSection 6
U.S. imports of wrought zirconium and zirconium articles (SITC 69987) totaled $7.2M in April 2026, traded with 11 countries.
Importers of Wrought Zirconium and Zirconium Articles paid $455K in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 14% on $3.2M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule.
Last updated: April 2026 dataZirconium's near-zero thermal neutron absorption cross-section makes wrought zirconium tubing and structural components indispensable in nuclear reactor fuel assemblies, while its corrosion resistance also serves chemical processing equipment. Trade in wrought zirconium is complicated by the need to distinguish nuclear-grade (hafnium-free) material from commercial-grade, a specification difference that affects both price and classification. Importers should be aware that zirconium articles may intersect with export-control frameworks in supplier countries, adding a licensing dimension to procurement.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
Nuclear-grade zirconium must have hafnium reduced to very low levels (typically below 100 ppm) because hafnium absorbs neutrons and would degrade reactor performance. Commercial-grade wrought zirconium retains its naturally occurring hafnium. The two grades differ substantially in price and end-use suitability, and buyers should request certified chemical analysis to confirm hafnium content before import.
Nuclear-grade wrought zirconium can be subject to export licensing requirements in supplier countries under their nuclear non-proliferation commitments, and US import may require coordination with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission depending on end use. Importers procuring material for reactor applications should consult a licensed customs broker and verify whether NRC or Department of Energy notifications apply to their specific transaction.
| Country | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| FRANCE | $6.8M | $1.4M | -$5.4M |
| KOREA, SOUTH | -- | $6.7M | +$6.7M |
| CANADA | $210K | $4.4M | +$4.2M |
| SPAIN | -- | $2.6M | +$2.6M |
| CZECH REPUBLIC | -- | $2.2M | +$2.2M |
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Monthly import values over time