HS Code 76.05 – Aluminium wire

HS code 7605 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Aluminium wire. HS Code 7605 specifically covers 'Aluminium wire,' a crucial category of semi-finished aluminium products characterized by its small, uniform cross-section and typically supplied in coils. This heading encompasses solid products obtained by drawing, extruding, or rolling, where the maximum cross-sectional dimension does not exceed 6 mm, as per Explanatory Notes, though national interpretations may vary slightly. It includes wire of various aluminium alloys, both bare and coated (but not insulated for electrical purposes, which falls under 8544). The scope distinctly separates it from rods and bars (7604), which generally have larger cross-sectional dimensions, and from insulated electrical cables. Accurate classification is vital for trade compliance due to the widespread use of aluminium wire in electrical transmission, welding, fasteners, and various manufacturing processes. Tariffs, trade agreement benefits, and specific product standards are all impacted by correct classification. Historically, aluminium wire gained prominence as a lighter and often more cost-effective alternative to copper in many electrical applications, particularly in overhead power transmission. This heading is integral to Chapter 76, providing a foundational material for further processing. It bridges the gap between unwrought aluminium (7601) and finished articles like insulated cables (8544), mesh (7616), or various manufactured components, highlighting aluminium's role in critical infrastructure and diverse industrial applications. Its classification is paramount for industries ranging from electrical and automotive to construction and aerospace.

Electrical conductor wire (uninsulated), aluminium welding wire, aluminium rivet wire, aluminium fence wire, aluminium binding wire, bare overhead transmission lines, fine gauge aluminium wire for mesh, aluminium wire for cables (uninsulated), aluminium alloy wire for aerospace, aluminium wire for weaving, aluminium wire for springs, aluminium wire for fasteners, aluminium wire for cold heading, aluminium wire for structural reinforcement, aluminium wire for screens, aluminium wire for general engineering, aluminium wire for braiding, aluminium wire for musical instruments, aluminium wire for jewellery, aluminium wire for decorative purposes, aluminium wire for staple pins, aluminium wire for nets, aluminium wire for brushes, aluminium wire for zips, aluminium wire for filtration media

A common misclassification error for HS 7605 is confusing bare aluminium wire with insulated electrical cables and conductors (8544). If the wire is insulated with plastic, rubber, or other non-conductive materials, it falls under 8544, not 7605. Another mistake is classifying larger diameter rods or bars (7604) as wire, especially if they are supplied in coils; the distinction hinges on the maximum cross-sectional dimension (typically 6 mm for wire). Additionally, articles made from wire, such as aluminium netting (7616) or fabricated components, should not be classified as raw wire. Traders must carefully examine the product's physical characteristics, particularly insulation status and dimensions, to avoid incorrect duty rates and compliance issues.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 7605 in UN Comtrade data were Canada ($666M, 10% of world exports), Bahrain (about $630M) and India ($597M). World exports came to about $6.5B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Bahrain did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 18% of its exports here ($117M, CEPII BACI), so it may rank higher.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 7605 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.0B, 16% of world imports), Italy ($426M) and the Netherlands ($323M). World imports came to about $6.3B, 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 7605 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 76 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (76) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (05) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.