Glass: float glass and surface ground or polished glass, in sheets, non-wired, (other than coloured throughout the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed or merely surface ground)

In 2024, glass: float glass and surface ground or polished glass, in sheets, non-wired, (other than coloured throughout the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed or merely surface ground) trade exhibited significant decline, with global flows reaching $2,944,242,521 and a three-year compound annual growth rate of -4.3% (five-year: +1.0%). The all-time peak of $4,191,228,404 was recorded in 2022; the current level is 30% below that high-water mark.

Over the 30-year observation window (1995–2024), 62% of years recorded positive growth, indicating a mildly upward trajectory with periodic contractions. Trend momentum is decelerating (-4.8% acceleration).

The World Trade Flows Characterization classifies glass: float glass and surface ground or polished glass, in sheets, non-wired, (other than coloured throughout the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed or merely surface ground) as "One-way trade" in the high price range price segment, providing additional context for market positioning and competitive dynamics.

The supply side is diversified (Herfindahl-Hirschman Index 0.060). The three largest exporters — Malaysia ($361.7M), Germany ($341.9M), and China ($277.1M) — collectively dominate supply flows. The leading exporter has grown at -1.4% over the last three years.

On the demand side, importer concentration is diversified (HHI 0.041). The three largest import markets are China ($482.1M), United States ($127.4M), and Canada ($116.4M). The largest importing market sources from 38 different supplying countries.

Estimated substitution elasticity: -8.12. Buyers are highly price-sensitive and can switch between suppliers relatively easily.

The dominant trade corridor is Japan → China at $164.1M, representing 34.0% of the importer's total demand.

The volatility score for glass: float glass and surface ground or polished glass, in sheets, non-wired, (other than coloured throughout the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed or merely surface ground) is 15 out of 100, classified as low. Trade flows are relatively stable compared to other HS6 products, suggesting mature supply chains and predictable demand.

For market entrants, contracting demand signals caution before committing resources. The diversified supply landscape means many competitors but also multiple entry points and buyer relationships to target.

Data confidence is rated "High" based on reporting coverage and consistency across OECD member and partner countries.