HS Code 70.03 – Glass; cast glass and rolled glass in sheets or profiles, whether or not having an absorbent, reflecting or non-reflecting layer, but not otherwise worked

HS code 7003 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Glass; cast glass and rolled glass in sheets or profiles, whether or not having an absorbent, reflecting or non-reflecting layer, but not otherwise worked. Heading 7003 encompasses unworked cast glass and rolled glass, presented in sheets or profiles, which may or may not have an absorbent, reflecting, or non-reflecting layer. The crucial qualifier is "but not otherwise worked," meaning the glass has undergone only the fundamental casting or rolling process and any basic surface treatment like coating, but no further manufacturing steps such as bending, drilling, or extensive edge working. This heading serves as a foundational classification for primary forms of flat glass, distinct from drawn, blown, or float glass, which are produced by different methods. Cast and rolled glass often features patterns or textures imparted during the manufacturing process, such as patterned glass, wired glass, or rough plate glass. It is a vital component in various industries, from basic construction (e.g., skylights, internal partitions, shower screens) to decorative applications where its specific textures are desired. Trade compliance under 7003 requires a clear understanding of the manufacturing process and the extent of working, as any significant further processing would shift the classification to subsequent headings like 7006. Historically, cast and rolled methods were among the earliest industrial techniques for producing flat glass, making this heading a cornerstone for understanding the evolution of glass trade within Chapter 70, which covers "Glass and Glassware" in all its forms, from raw materials to finished articles.

Unworked patterned cast glass sheets, wired rolled glass panels, rough plate glass, textured cast glass for privacy screens, reeded rolled glass sheets, fluted cast glass profiles, cathedral rolled glass, figured rolled glass, obscure cast glass for bathrooms, solar-control rolled glass, fire-resistant wired rolled glass, decorative cast glass for doors, translucent rolled glass, channel cast glass sections, unpolished cast glass for industrial use, glass blocks (unworked), sandblasted-effect cast glass, anti-glare rolled glass, heat-absorbing cast glass, sound-insulating rolled glass, cast glass for skylights, rolled glass for greenhouses, rough cast glass slabs, unworked colored cast glass, cast glass for light fixtures.

A common misclassification occurs when traders confuse cast and rolled glass (7003) with drawn or blown glass (7004) or float glass (7005). The key differentiator is the manufacturing process; 7003 refers specifically to glass formed by casting or rolling. Another frequent error is classifying glass under 7003 when it has undergone further working, such as bending, drilling, or extensive edge polishing, which would correctly place it in 7006. Simple cutting to rectangular or square shapes does not move it from 7003, but any more complex shaping or processing does. Additionally, if the glass is toughened or laminated, it falls under 7007, regardless of its original manufacturing method.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 7003 in UN Comtrade data were South Korea ($180M, 18% of world exports), the United States ($156M) and Japan ($110M). World exports came to about $990M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 7003 in UN Comtrade data were China ($765M, 53% of world imports), Thailand ($153M) and the United States ($101M). World imports came to about $1.4B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 7003 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 70 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (70) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (03) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.