Hardware & Fastener Components Magazine Issue No.61

KYD

King Yuan Dar

King Yuan Dar Metal Enterprise Co., Ltd. ("KYD") with adequate heat treatment R&D technology and equipment manufacturing experience has been serving customers in the global fasteners, parts and powder metallurgy industries with heat treatment needs for nearly 30 years, and has released a number of eyecatching and innovative products responding to actual industrial needs, including the AI Continuous Batch Green Chamber Furnace and Vacuum Continuous Cyclic Energy Saving Spheroidizing Furnace, both of which have been granted international patents, creating a competitive niche in the international market for its customers. In H2 2023, in response to the global trend of energy saving and carbon reduction, KYD further released the new "Cyclic Continuous Vacuum High-Temperature Sintering Furnace", integrating various excellent features that allow users to streamline production and achieve superior product quality.

Eco-friendly AI Intelligent System

The introduction of heat treatment equipment with multiple intelligent functions that meets the concept of green & sustainable development is a main trend of the industrial application, so the new equipment developed by the team of KYD General Manager Chang Lung Tseng has integrated many relevant features in the operating system, including: an intelligent hardware interface allowing on-site personnel to operate it by only setting material feeding values; AI remote image monitoring to alert the operator of temperature abnormalities in a timely manner; voltage stabilization to maintain normal operation; the gas ratio in the machine being properly adjusted to improve the yield of workpieces; heat generated from manufacturing being recycled and reused through conduction/convection/ radiation to further reduce power consumption; and hydraulic push-andfeed improving productivity and stabilizing production quality.

It is understood that the core heat treatment technology of KYD's new sintering furnace is highly innovative among similar products in the current market. "Starting from Taiwan and aiming to expand globally, KYD hopes to draw more customers' attention to the advantages that its equipment can bring to their applications,” said General Manager Tseng.

Accelerates Customers’ Industrial Upgrade

Patents Approved in Many Countries; Comprehensive Heat Treatment Equipment Integration Solutions

The oxidation furnace structures, chamber furnace structures and heat recovery systems KYD developed have been patented in Taiwan, China, Germany and the U.S., and the in-house process management is fully compliant with the ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 requirements. In addition, KYD continues to focus on the R&D of environmentally-friendly AI heat treatment equipment and provides comprehensive solutions that integrate heat treatment processing, gas supply, and equipment manufacturing. KYD maintains long-term cooperation with not only fastener customers, but also many others in the automotive and motorcycle industries, as well as government agencies.

"My long-term goal is to enter the U.S. heat treatment market within two years, and then return to Taiwan from overseas to gain a higher market share for KYD's competitive equipment," said General Manager Tseng.

It is expected that with the complementary integration of the existing plant in Luchu (Kaohsiung) and the Changbin plant and the Thailand plant under construction close to the supply chain of automobile factories, KYD will continue to expand its global market in 2024 and provide more complete one-stop services for heat treatment equipment to customers.

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Accelerating Carbon Reduction and Intelligent Digital Management Ele Shine Completes First Phase of New Headquarters

加速減碳、智慧數位管理 益祥新總部第一期完工

Specialized in high precision parts processing, Ele Shine Metal Industrial Co., Ltd. is one of the most competitive CNC turned and milled precision metal parts manufacturers in Taiwan. With one-stop integrated machining solutions and in compliance with ISO 9001:2018 and RoHS international standards, it has been serving the needs of many customers from the electronics, automotive/motorbike, bicycle, photoelectric, mechanical hardware industries, etc. for 43 years and has become the most reliable partner of its customers. In order to deepen the breadth and depth of customer service and create a niche for the company's future development, Ele Shine's new headquarters project was formally approved last year and the first phase of the project has already been successfully completed. The second phase is expected to be completed and ready for official opening in the second half of 2024

Equipment Upgrade & Deployment in Aerospace, Medical, and Semiconductor Fields

Ele Shine spent NT$250 million building a new headquarters with a total floor space of around 4,630 sq. m, hoping to gradually transform into higherend markets such as aerospace, medical, and semiconductor based on the goals of corporate sustainability and industrial upgrade. In addition to the introduction of robotic arms and automatic feeding systems, a largesize German turning and milling machine “DMG MORI NTX-1000” and a horizontal milling machine “DMG MORI NHX-4000” will be also introduced this October, which will expand the processing capacity on the one hand and secure an early preparation for future applications for the ISO 13485 certification for medical device and AS9100 certification for aerospace on the other hand.

"Intelligent digital management has been a current trend in the industry. Besides introducing stand-alone machines, robotic arms, and fully-automated ultrasonic cleaners in the existing plant, we’ve also set up a central control room in the new headquarters and integrated the concepts of IIoT, carbon inventory, and digitization with large machines and robotic arms, flexible systems and combined turning/milling technology that allow us to manufacture products such as implants, bone nails, embedded parts, military-purpose parts, firing pins, etc., creating our leading edge among other industrial competitors," said Wei Shiang Chen, General Manager of Ele Shine.

Ele Shine's exquisite craftsmanship has even been appointed by Nespresso as its sole aluminum complimentary gifts supplier in Taiwan, assisting them in the development, design, labelling, and assembly of products.

Tripartite Industry-GovernmentAcademia Cooperation for Structuring a Sustainable Development System

Recognizing that carbon re duction is the key to developing more potential markets in the future, Ele Shine also actively participates in the relevant counselling programs offered by the Metal Electromechanical Industry Division of IDA (MOEA, Taiwan) and National Chin-Yi University of Technology, and continues to carry out and accelerate the upgrading of the company in order to help its customers promote their brand value and competitiveness in the marketplace.

General Manager Chen, a second-generation and responsible for corporate succession, said, "CBAM, ESG, digitalization of systems, and smart manufacturing are issues everyone is facing. In addition, the global industry is changing rapidly, so in order to stabilize the company's operation and achieve sustainability, we’ll actively work in this direction after our new headquarters is open. Ele Shine is also aiming to be a "century-old company" and endeavors to create quality metal products that meet the industry’s expectations.”

CYUN HONG Casters-

Rolling Out Business Opportunities for All Trades

With the business philosophy of "Innovative Design, Reliable Quality, and Attentive Service", Cyun Hong Enterprise Co., Ltd. has been producing professional industrial-use casters and adjustable leveling feet for many years to help the global customers gain presence in their own markets, and is also one of the seemingly insignificant but actually important pillars behind the success stories of many industries.

Headquartered in Taichung, the company has offices throughout the north, central and south of Taiwan, and has an eye on the global market. It mainly manufactures and supplies TPR rubber/PU/nylon/conductive rubber and other high temperatureresistant casters of specifications between 1.5 inches and 8 inches, as well as galvanized, yellow zinc plated, and stainless steel adjustable leveling feet, etc. In addition to standard products, Cyun Hong's professional service team can also provide OEM customized services according to customers' different product design and development characteristics and needs.

群弘腳輪 滾動百業商機

Contact: Mr. Chien-Hung Chen

Email: ch.casters@msa.hinet.net

RoHS and SGS Certified; Optimal Realization of Quality, Efficiency and Safety

Casters are often used in high load areas such as automated machinery & equipment, industrial manufacturing, transportation and logistics, semiconductors, sports equipment, food processing, etc., and their durability, safety, and service life are the most important concerns of customers. In order to meet the needs of industrial customers, Cyun Hong's products are manufactured with RoHS compliant materials and sent to a third-party organization, SGS, for rigorous testing before leaving the factory to ensure that every product delivered to customers meets the international requirements of various standards and parameters.

"Stability, safety and ease of use have always been our most important considerations. It is our corporate policy to ensure that our customers can use our products with confidence and peace of mind, and to be a good partner of our customers," according to Cyun Hong.

Numbers Speak for Themselves. Strengths Approved with Real Testing Results

Cyun Hong has been insisting on innovation all along the way, and now owns many patents such as quick release caster structure, caster height adjustment mechanism, caster turntable assembly, contact structure of adjustable leveling feet, etc. Cyun Hong has not only introduced CAE (computer-aided engineering) software into its manufacturing process to help product development analyses and design optimization at an early stage, but also cooperated with many academic institutions to obtain relevant research data to make product development more in line with the actual needs of customers in the ever-changing market, and therefore, Cyun Hong's casters and adjustable leveling feet have delivered excellent data performance in many of the actual product tests.

In two recent test reports, Cyun Hong’s casters demonstrated excellent "less than yield" performance under the 1,000 kg equivalent stress experimental condition, while its adjustable leveling feet also demonstrated "less than yield" performance under the 3,000 kg equivalent stress and 0 degree and 15 degrees loading angles conditions.

Looking forward to 2024, Cyun Hong will not only continue to develop more overseas customers and create opportunities to work with more customers in the industry, but also invest more efforts in the development of high-quality and innovative products, in the hope of providing the market with more quality choices, and developing a wider international market share for its high-quality casters and adjustable leveling feet.

±0.01mm Tolerance

Matpro Seiki’s CNC Composite Turning Technology Outshines Industry Peers

旺鋐CNC複合車削工藝技壓群雄

Matpro Seiki Co., Ltd. is a professional manufacturer and supplier of high-precision CNC-turned parts based in central Taiwan and focusing on sales worldwide. With 50+ employees and 43 sets of Japanese-made CNC compound Swiss-type lathes and turning lathes in the factory, Matpro Seiki specializes in the production of high-precision parts for bicycles, automobiles, sensors, and special fasteners. Over the years, in addition to meeting the needs of domestic Taiwanese customers, the company has also extended its services to customers in advanced markets such as the U.S., Europe and Japan, creating an average annual sales of US$4 million.

>> Solid Technical Background with

Approved Testing Results

Wins Recognition of European and U.S. Customers

Matpro Seiki offers mainly CNC composite turning service and is capable of machining up to 52mm OD (max.), 2.5mm OD (min.), and unlimited lengths. Its CNC machining tolerance can be up to ±0.01mm and the geometric tolerance can be up to 0.015mm.

“We have a supply chain that can handle cold/hot forging, extrusion, stamping, die casting, powder metallurgy, flat/circular grinding, heat treatment, surface treatment, laser engraving, and more,” said Steven Pai, Matpro Seiki Technical Manager. “In addition, we will also evaluate engineering drawings provided by customers and additional requirements such as price, function, mechanical properties, etc., to find for customers the best manufacturing procedures to maximize their price competitiveness.”

Matpro Seiki has suggested better machining solutions for customers in many collaborations. For example, it once suggested customers that they change their CNC composite Swiss-type lathes to cold forging and secondary turning. “We have not only significantly reduced customers’ purchasing costs, but also indirectly boosted the volumes of their purchases by adopting more appropriate machining processes,” said Manager Pai.

Matpro Seiki contact: Technical Manager Steven Pai

Email: steven-pai@matpro.com.tw

>> Regular QC Audits to Increase Sales Share in Each Industry

The majority of Matpro Seiki’s products are supplied to customers in the automotive metal fastener, specialty fastener, bicycle and sensor component markets, accounting for 40%, 25%, 20% and 15% of its sales respectively. In recognition of the high quality requirements of these markets, Matpro Seiki, which is ISO 9001 certified, regularly sends its gauges to a verification unit for service life evaluation every 6 months, conducts internal audits every year, and engages SGS to conduct audits and verifications every 2 years. As for outsourced heat-treatment and surfacetreatment, Matpro Seiki strictly requires that vendors should be ISO-9001 certified for subsequent QC discussions and provision of quality assurance reports. It can also provide PPAP 3, IMDS, VDA6.3 and other related documents to customers upon request.

“In addition to ISO 9001, we will also arrange for our staff to attend ISO 14064 and ISO 14067 courses in 2024 to address the ESG issue of carbon emissions. We are also planning to provide courses and encourage our staff to obtain certificates in order to assist them in upgrading their professionalism in various departments. At present, our customers in Europe are mainly from Germany, and their high quality requirements have enabled us to grow into a factory capable of facing more diversified challenges. Starting from this year, we will make the Japanese market our business development focus, and we are confident that we will be able to handle different quality requirements from different parties on the basis of both technology and equipment, and achieve more competitive costs,” said Manager Pai.

Copyright owned by Fastener World Article by Gang Hao Chang, Vice Editor-in-Chief

Editorial: Taiwan Seeks Breakthrough Amidst Challenges in Export

社論： 出口面臨挑戰 台灣尋找2024年突破口

Taiwan is well known as a kingdom of both fasteners and hand tools which respectively take up their own market shares that have influence. The increase in the world’s demand for these two Taiwanese industries over the past few years has made Taiwan gain more attention in the global market. This article does a cross analysis of Taiwanese fastener and hand tool export performance, points out the current and future trends, and helps global readers learn Taiwan’s situation and where collaboration is possible.

Hand Tool Companies Expect Orders to Return in H2 2024

Taiwan's global export of hand tools amounted to USD 3.8 billion in 2019, and after reaching a peak of USD 4.79 billion in 2021, it began a downward trajectory in 2022. The export value reached USD 2.447 billion in the first eight months of 2023, and based on that, the full-year export value for 2023 is currently estimated to land at around USD 3.67 billion. Compared to 2022, the forecast for 2023 is down a whopping 20.5%, virtually canceling out the 27.4% increase in 2021. In other words, Taiwan's hand tool export in 2023 returned to 2019 or 2020 levels.

From this fluctuation in export value, it can be observed that high overseas inventory level started to wreak havoc in Taiwan in 2022 and seriously undermined the export performance of Taiwanese hand tools in 2023. Some local companies revealed that the first half of 2023 was like being in a dark tunnel with no sight of light at the end. However,

they seemed to see a ray of hope around November of that year. Overseas customers are still closely watching their inventories, meaning the the inventory level will remain relatively high in the short term. In addition, with mortgage rates still high, demand in the construction market has been affected, which in turn has impacted demand in the hand tool market. Local companies estimate that incoming order may not increase until the second half of this year. This will affect the performance of Taiwan's global export value of hand tools, making it likely to maintain a downward trend in 2024.

Fastener Companies Anticipate Destocking

But

Could Face Lower Price Competitiveness

Taiwanese Fastener Global Export Value

Taiwan's global export of fasteners was USD 4.31 billion in 2019, and bottomed at USD 3.96 billion in 2020 due to the severe impact of the pandemic as well as harbor and supply chain disruption. However, the pandemic brought business opportunities which redirected purchase orders to Taiwanese fastener companies starting from 2021, and the world's demand for Taiwan's fasteners skyrocketed, pushing the export value to the peak at USD 6.14 billion in 2022, but in the same year, some local companies observed the phenomenon of overstocking by overseas customers. In 2023, the overstocking took its toll on the Taiwanese companies and caused a sharp drop in the number of orders. The export value of 2023 fell 25% to USD 4.6 billion, almost back to the level of 2019.

From that, we can tell that the pandemic acted like a doubleedged sword, bringing monumental and record-breaking export records to Taiwanese fastener industry, but also stripped the milestone away from Taiwan as it left. The definitive factor here is the inventory level in the U.S. and Europe and the need to place orders. Still, we can observe high resilience of Taiwan fastener industry that is able to retain a normal export level a little higher than before the Covid outbreak.

Taiwanese fastener companies now look at 2024 in two separate ways. The optimists anticipate ongoing destocking at overseas customers side and believe orders will come in more. The pessimists think, now that Taiwan CSC has raised Q1 price on steels and wire rods, it will lower Taiwan’s fastener price competitiveness and make it more difficult to attract orders even if overseas inventory level drops.

High Resemblance in Hand Tool and Fastener Export Fluctuations

It is not hard to find out the resemblance between hand tools and fasteners while comparing their export value changes. These two industries both heavily rely on export. Their export values both surged in 2020 and plunged in 2023. In other words, high inventory is the Achilles' heel of both industries. On the other hand, the difference is that Taiwan fastener industry’s export surge lasted two years (2021 and 2022), while Taiwan hand tool industry’s export surge lasted one year (2021). The hand tool industry entered a downward spiral in 2022, one year earlier than the fastener industry.

National Coalition + Carbon Reduction, A Grand Strategy to Break Through Challenges

Although the outlook for those two industries is somewhat bleak, there are some who see this period of downturn as an opportunity to create the next breakthrough. Take an iconic Taiwanese hand tool manufacturer Proxene for example, it is undergoing a critical transformation led by a successor of the second generation. In addition to inaugurating a new NTD 900 million plant in Shengang District (Taichung City of Taiwan) in December 2023 to tap into the high-end market, it has introduced MES systems and automated production lines over the years to gradually build a smart factory. Observing that the hand tool industry is facing succession and carbon reduction problems, it believes that now is the best time to horizontally integrate the hand tool industry. Therefore, it will take the lead in forming a "Taiwan Hand Tool Coalition" to increase revenue to USD 159 million in the next five years, and then to USD 319 million through mergers.

Since CBAM explicitly lists fasteners as one of the first carbon border tax targets, Taiwanese fastener companies have been focusing on carbon reduction as the next breakthrough point. Many of them have already conducted GHG inventories and introduced national ESG carbon reduction resources and platforms. Some of them can already provide accurate carbon emissions data to EU importers. Some are also planning to replicate Taiwan's fastener supply chain to Southeast Asian countries while setting up factories in Southeast Asia in order to form an overseas Taiwan fastener coalition.

Reading up to this point, you should find that several years after Fastener World heard the local companies voices and called for a formation of a national coalition, this concept is now in the planning phase in the form of Taiwan’s fastener and hand tool coalitions. Meanwhile, many local companies have recognized “carbon reduction” to be a critical factor for them to survive in the future. Fastener World anticipates to see them combine national coalition and carbon reduction measures into a grand business deployment tactic and use it to break the 2023 deadlock.

Copyright owned by Fastener World Article by Dean Tseng

Hardware Innovation Alley

五金新品大道

Cordless 18V Brushless Rivet Nut Gun

無線 18V 無刷拉帽槍

The 18V Brushless Rivet Nut Gun by Metabo has a quickchange mandrel system that can rivet up to M10 in aluminum, M8 in steel and M6 in stainless steel. It includes an easy setting force adjustment with 99 values and 10 memory settings. In addition, it has an auto-reverse feature that automatically resets the tool for quick reload.

The 18V Brushless Rivet Nut Gun is available as a bare tool and when paired with a compact 4.0 Ah LiHD (Lithium High Density) battery, it can secure 1,800 M5 rivets on a single charge and has a pulling force of 1,500 N or 337 feet per lb. This one-handed rivet gun is extremely fast, lightweight, and well balanced for maximized ergonomics. It also includes safety features, such as a hand protection guard and balancing loop.

The Metabo NMP 18 LTX BL Cordless Rivet Nut Gun is the ideal solution used by roofers, contractors, HVAC technicians and more when connecting flat stock with threaded connections on any jobsite.

Nepros neXT 9.5sq.

Ratchet Wrench

Nepros neXT 9.5sq.棘輪扳手

KTC Tools’ Nepros neXT 9.5sq. Ratchet Wrench is designed by observing and studying the posture of the person using the tool, and based on an optimization analysis. It has a compact structure that is lightweight and has the necessary strength designed. It takes into account strength, rigidity, lightness, balance, familiar shape, and it is easy-to-use, optimized for different people, and pursues the ultimate in practicality.

Product Features:

* The handle has been completely remodeled.

* Strength and extreme lightness are achieved through an optimized X structure that spreads the load over the entire ratchet.

* The handle has no edges, the finger grip is flat and the gripping section is rounded.

* The head surface is high-speed shot-peened with ceramic beads to increase surface hardness and strength.

* The size of the ratchet head has been reduced, making it lighter and the balance is optimized for easier use.

* 90 gears and precision grade 8 pawls achieve lightness and strength.

* Total length 180 mm / Head width 25.5 mm / Head thickness 14 mm / Handle ∅ 23 mm / Weight 210 grams.

Next-Gen M18 FUEL Impact Wrenches 次世代M18 FUEL系列衝擊扳手

The M18 FUEL ½” High Torque Impact Wrench with Friction Ring by Milwaukee provides users with the best combination of power and size to maximize productivity. A PowerState Brushless Motor delivers nut-busting torque up to 1,500 ft.-lbs. with a M18 RedLithium XC5.0 Battery and up to 1,600 ft.-lbs. with Milwaukee’s new M18 RedLithium Forge XC6.0 Battery. The Wrench is capable of removing stubborn bolts and nuts. Standing as the lightest and most compact high torque impact wrench on the market, it allows more access in tight spaces and offers increased ease of use in application, with the fastest removal speeds in class.

The M18 FUEL ½” High Torque Impact Wrench with Pin Detent provides professional users with up to 900 ft.-lbs. of fastening torque and delivers up to 1,100 ft.-lbs. of nut-busting torque when paired with a M18 RedLithium XC5.0 Battery pack. Offering more access in tight spaces, this cordless impact wrench measures at the shortest length in its class to deliver the lightest and most compact solution for users.

New 18V Impact Wrench

全新18V衝擊扳手

The SSW 18 LTX 800 BL by Metabo provides a maximum tightening torque of 590 ft-lbs., breakaway torque of 885 ft-lbs., no-load speed of 2,575 rpm, and impact rate of 3,300 BPM – all driven by a ½” square drive with friction ring. It is available as a bare tool (602403840), or as a 2x8.0 LiHD battery kit complete with ASC 55 charger (US602403620). Both versions come standard with belt hook and metaBOX 145 stackable carrying case.

The SSW 18 LTX 800 BL comes with Metabo’s 2nd Generation Brushless Motor which extends run time, maximizes power, and increases motor life. Twelve different speed/torque settings can be easily chosen with a simple push of the thumb dial, including APS Mode (Automatic Power Shift), which automatically downshifts to a lower rpm once breakaway torque is achieved to reduce lug nut spin-off and free-fall. Other safety features include: two integrated LED work lights to illuminate the work area for easier and safer operation, tethering point for lanyard attachment when working at height, and an ergonomic, rubber-coated non-slip grip for impact protection and comfort.

This impact wrench is ideal for nearly every trade, from HVAC, mechanical contractors and carpenters to metalworking, fabrication, and automotive work. They are well-suited for a variety of fastening and anchoring applications in wood, metal and concrete.

Compiled by Fastener World

World News

Industry Development

Alacero: CBAM May Raise Steel Trade Tensions & Prices in 'Inevitable' Greening Process

拉美鋼鐵製造商協會： CBAM可能增加鋼鐵貿 易緊張局勢並抬高價格

CBAM risks heightening tensions in steel trade with Latin America, Alejandro Wagner, executive director of Latin American Steelmakers' Association (Alacero), said in an interview with S&P Global Commodity Insights. CBAM could further encourage steel imports into Latin America due to trade diversion from other regions impacted by the new environmental barrier, in particular China, Wagner said. The Asian giant may have already boosted steel exports to Latin America last year.

Steel prices may also rise in some regions, particularly in the EU, as markets become more protected and the costs related to decarbonization and CBAM-related bureaucracies grow.

Adaption to CBAM rules may be a challenge, according to Wagner, even though Alacero and worldsteel data shows Latin America's high percentage of renewable energy in its electricity matrix means its overall carbon emissions in steel are lower than the world average. In Latin America, each metric ton of steel produced emits an average of 1.6 mt of CO2, while the world average is 1.9 mt.

Mills in some parts of Latin America could find new export opportunities in Mexico and the US. Mexico's steel production and demand are growing due to nearshoring projects being undertaken with the US, where steel markets are more competitive, Wagner said.

Germany's Supporting Measures Not Ready While CBAM is in Pilot Phase

CBAM試行，德國配套措施還沒譜

Handelsblatt reported on September 28, 2023 that "there is still no consensus within the German government as to whether CBAM should be administered by the German Customs Service (under the Federal Ministry of Finance) or the Carbon Emissions Trading Authority (under the Federal Ministry of Economics)". Volker Treier, head of foreign trade at the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce, said that "affected companies are still trying to understand the complicated rules and to inform foreign exporters of the information they should submit."

The situation is confusing because companies have no solutions for their questions. In addition, Dirk Jandura, president of BGA, pointed out that importers have to rely on foreign manufacturers to provide information on the carbon footprint of their products, but the information may not be easy to obtain, and even if it is obtained, there is a lack of experts in the field to certify the reliability and validity of the information, and there are loopholes in the reliability and validity of the information.

On the other hand, although European manufacturers participating in the international market have already received free emission certificates, the number of certificates is not enough to eliminate the cost of CO2 emissions in the entire production process due to the nature of the policy and can only partially reduce the cost of CO2 emissions. In the future, when CBAM fully replaces the free quota, manufacturers will have to bear the full cost of carbon emissions, which will reduce their international competitiveness. The question of how to compensate companies in order to maintain international competitiveness is still under discussion.

The EU plans to ensure the export competitiveness of European companies through international collaboratin and a comprehensive multilateral climate agreement. To this end, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has promoted the establishment of a "Climate Club" at the G7 summit in the hope of reaching a unified price agreement for carbon dioxide, but it is still far from being achieved. Carsten Rolle of BDI criticized that the implementation of CBAM is imminent, but the EU's complementary measures to protect companies' exports are still far from being realized.

Brighton-Best, Parker Fasteners Announce Strategic Partnership

Brighton-Best International與Parker Fasteners宣佈結 成戰略夥伴

Brighton-Best International and Parker Fasteners announced the formation of a strategic partnership, starting in 2024, on Oct. 10. This partnership is likely to revolutionize the fastener industry by having quicker lead times.

Parker Fasteners, a manufacturer with a strong foothold in the U.S. domestic market, has been operational for over a decade and has earned a reputation for being customer-centric. Brighton-Best International has been in business for nearly 100 years and is known for nationally high levels of stock.

The agreement will focus on promoting the expansion of BBI’s stainless steel lines. The partnership is expected to support distributor companies to expand their reach and increase their revenue and product offering of stainless steel.

MPE Partners Announces Investment in Mid-States Bolt & Screw Co. 私募資產公司MPE Partners宣布投資Mid-States Bolt & Screw公司

MPE Partners announced Oct. 19, 2023 an investment in Mid-States Bolt & Screw Co., a value-added distributor of fasteners and MRO products serving a diverse range of end markets. MPE's investment positions Mid-States for accelerated growth while supporting the Company as an industry leader, an employer of choice, and a strategic partner for its customers.

MPE partnered in the transaction with the Somers family, who founded Mid-States more than 50 years ago. Scott Somers, President of Mid-States, said, "On behalf of my family, we are excited to partner with MPE. Since my father's founding of the business over 50 years ago, Mid-States has continued to drive success through our dedication to excellent customer service. We are excited to work with the MPE team to maintain this tradition while pursuing the Company's next phase of growth."

Graham Schena, Partner at MPE, said, "We are looking forward to partnering with the Somers family and the rest of the Mid-States team to accelerate the Company's growth through continued customer service and product availability, as well as organic and inorganic geographic expansion."

Nick Stender, Principal at MPE, added, "The Somers family has built Mid-States into a world-class distributor over the past several decades. We look forward to helping MidStates accelerate its growth while maintaining the culture and tradition of excellence that has made the Company so successful to date."

Solon Manufacturing Company

Celebrating 75 Years in Business Solon Manufacturing歡慶成立75周年

Solon Manufacturing Company, a premier designer and manufacturer of Belleville spring washers, is proud to announce the celebration of its 75year anniversary. Since its inception in 1949, Solon Manufacturing Co. has been dedicated to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction, and this milestone marks a momentous journey of growth and success.

From humble beginnings— four college friends in a 3,000 sq. foot garage in Solon, Ohio, culminating in a move to a 30,000 sq. foot facility just north of the famous Chardon Square in the center of the states' snowbelt. “Celebrating our 75th anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate our history and how far we’ve come,” said company CEO, Diane Popovich, “Solon has enjoyed significant growth since the early days. Our 50 team members and their commitment to our core values is a testament to our culture— where our customers are the final and most important beneficiaries of outstanding teamwork.”

Solon Manufacturing Co. continues to thrive on the ideals of its founders—refreshing industrialism through creative problem-solving and collaboration across its engineering and manufacturing teams— which makes Solon Manufacturing Co. a recognized name in fastening solutions across many industries. Customers have come to depend on Solon for reliability alongside its projects when it comes to unique industrial bolting applications.

Through a shared corporate core focus of ‘we make bolting better®’, the Solon team remains steadfast in exploring new ways to continuously improve product manufacturability and quality, while enhancing the customer experience.

“We are grateful to our customers, suppliers, and employees for the confidence they have placed in us for the past 75 years. They have established the foundation that positioned us for growth and keep us striving for excellence as we look ahead to the next 75 years,” said Popovich.

Solon’s Belleville washer products are high-performing conicalshaped springs that deflect at a given rate, serving as the cornerstone solution for applications subjected to heavy vibrations, cryogenic processes and extreme temperature cycling found in industries from energy to aerospace.

Jeffrey F. Koehl Appointed Chairman of SPIROL International Holding Corporation

Jeffrey F. Koehl獲指派為SPIROL International Holding Corporation新任主席

SPIROL International Holding Corporation Board of Directors announces the unanimous decision to appoint Jeffrey F. Koehl as Chairman of SPIROL International Holding Corporation. Jeff joined the company in 1997, and has been serving as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SPIROL International Corporation since his appointment in 2010.

Jeff succeeds his father, Hans H. Koehl, who passed away on November 30, 2023. Serving as Chairman of SPIROL International Holding Corporation since his appointment in 1969, Hans retired from active management of the company in 2004 after 45 of dedicated service. Hans’ vision, dedication, and passion led to the transformation

of SPIROL from being a small, family-owned business in Northeast Connecticut into a worldrenowned manufacturing company with locations on 4 continents and in 13 countries.

Jeff earned his bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from Brown University, and his MBA from Boston College. He has over 26 years of experience at SPIROL and has held a number of leadership positions prior to being appointed Chairman and CEO of SPIROL International Corp. Under Jeff’s direction, SPIROL has achieved profound success and growth including the establishment of numerous wholly-owned subsidiaries as well as the recent acquisition of Ford Aerospace in South Shields, England.

Acquisitions

Shrieve Chemical Acquires

Gilbert & Jones

Shrieve Chemical併購金屬表面處理藥劑廠

Gilbert & Jones公司

Shrieve Chemical Company ("Shrieve"), a portfolio company of Gemspring Capital and a leading, value-added chemicals distributor, announced that it has acquired Gilbert & Jones ("G&J"), a premiere distributor of industrial chemicals throughout North America. Based in New Britain, Connecticut, Gilbert & Jones delivers a broad product offering to customers across a range of industries and applications, including aerospace, water treatment, fasteners, automotive, electronics, and other industries.

"The Gilbert & Jones acquisition aligns perfectly with our long-term growth strategy and allows us to further diversify our product offerings and expand our reach into new markets. Together, we will capitalize on our collective strengths and capabilities to provide unparalleled service and solutions to our customers. We are excited to welcome the Gilbert & Jones team to the Shrieve family and are looking forward to our combined success," commented George Fuller, CEO of Shrieve.

Gilbert & Jones Founder and CEO, George Gilbert, added, "Joining forces with Shrieve represents an exciting chapter for Gilbert & Jones. We have always been dedicated to delivering high quality products and services to our customers. With the support and resources of Shrieve, the existing G&J team is confident that we can take our long history of exceptional service and innovation to the next level."

Snap-on Acquires Mountz, Inc.

Snap-on併購Mountz, Inc.

Snap-on Incorporated, a leading global innovator, manufacturer and marketer of tools, equipment, diagnostics, repair information, and systems solutions for professional users performing critical tasks, announced that it acquired Mountz, Inc. (“Mountz”) for approximately US$40 million in cash on November 1, 2023.

Based in San Jose, California, Mountz is a leading developer, manufacturer, and marketer of high-precision torque tools, including measurement, calibration, and documentation products. The acquisition of Mountz complements and expands Snap-on’s torque offerings to customers in a variety of industries including aerospace, transportation, and advanced manufacturing. Applications range from assembly of electric vehicle batteries to production of charging infrastructure to fabrication of microelectronic componentry, including chips. Mountz will be part of the company’s Commercial & Industrial Group.

PennEngineering® Acquires Sherex Fastening Solutions

PennEngineering®併購Sherex Fastening Solutions

PennEngineering® announced the acquisition of Sherex® Fastening Solutions, a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and installation of blind rivet nuts and associated fastening solutions.

Headquartered in Buffalo, New York, Sherex is a premier technical provider of blind rivet nuts, with strong application expertise, and production capabilities worldwide. Sherex has achieved an impressive growth trajectory and continues to grow through technical solutions selling, providing best total installed cost solutions along with industry-leading rivet nut capabilities.

“When combined with our ATLAS® rivet nut brand, the Sherex acquisition positions the company to be the premier provider of rivet nuts worldwide. We are extremely excited to be bringing the expertise of Sherex to the PennEngineering® family,” said Pete George, CEO. “Their entrepreneurial spirit and technical acumen, combined with our ATLAS product line and broader PennEngineering capabilities, will strengthen our ability to quickly deliver innovative, high-quality fastening solutions to our customers around the globe.”

According to Sherex President, Adam Pratt, “teaming up with PennEngineering allows Sherex to provide our customers with additional global manufacturing capability to meet their demands around the world. Our long-standing customer relationships, combined with the reputation and history of PennEngineering will allow us to continue to provide enhanced value to our customers.”

Adam Pratt will assume the role of President of Sherex and ATLAS, reporting to Pete George, CEO of PennEngineering. Alex Hsiao will continue as General Manager, Sherex Taiwan.

Auveco Expands Presence with Acquisition of ClipLizard Systems

Auveco收購ClipLizard Systems擴大業務 範圍

Auveco, a leading force in the automotive fastener and body hardware aftermarket, proudly announces its recent acquisition of ClipLizard Systems, headquartered in Spencer, IN. This strategic move solidifies Auveco's position in the Collision and Paint, Body, and Equipment (PBE) markets.

ClipLizard Systems, recognized for its innovation and commitment to quality, specializes in sourcing and distributing automotive clips and fasteners to PBE distributors. Their licensed software solution, Materials Manager, enhances PBE inventory management. The successful transaction, finalized on November 1st last year, marks a pivotal moment for both companies.

Auveco CEO, Jeff Gilkinson, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "The partnership with ClipLizard aligns seamlessly with our values of innovation and exceptional service. This strategic fit will bolster our ability to serve customers across North America."

Ray Wilhoite, CEO of ClipLizard, echoed this sentiment, saying, "Joining forces with Auveco allows us to combine our strengths, offering an enhanced product and service portfolio to our channel partners."

The collaboration opens new channels to market for both Auveco and ClipLizard, providing access to a broader product portfolio. The companies foresee increased opportunities for new product introductions by leveraging core best practices.

Founded in 1916, Auveco has grown to become a predominant provider of automotive fasteners, serving thousands of wholesale distribution customers. ClipLizard, founded in 2003 by Ray Wilhoite, has developed a loyal following through its extensive portfolio of specialty clips and fasteners, catering to the needs of body shops.

Simpson Strong-Tie Has Acquired PMJ-tec in Switzerland

Simpson Strong-Tie併購瑞士PMJ-tec

Simpson Strong-Tie, the leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, has acquired PMJ-tec, a Swiss roofing and facade fastener manufacturer

specializing in A2, A4 and other high grade corrosion resistant stainless steel products.

PMJ-tec, founded in 1975, has its main office and factory in Switzerland and warehouses as well as sales offices in Germany and the Netherlands. Its products, including bi-metal fasteners, carbon steel fasteners and drainage pipe couplers, are engineered with over 45 years of expertise in the construction fastener industry and manufactured in compliance with rigorous internal and external standards.

“PMJ-tec is known not only for its superior quality products, but also for its commitment to the clients and service as well as innovation-oriented culture, all of which makes it a perfect match for Simpson Strong-Tie. This acquisition introduces bi-metal fasteners to our product portfolio, which is of great strategic importance to us”, explains Fabio Di Clemente, Director EU Strategy at Simpson Strong-Tie.

Philippines, the Automotive Fastener Export Giant in ASEAN and 2022 Statistics

菲律賓-東盟汽扣出口大國及2022貿易分析

In recent years, the Philippines has silently but steadily asserted itself as a dominant player in the automotive fastener export market within the ASEAN region. The archipelagic nation, traditionally recognized for its natural beauty and diverse culture, is now making waves as a key contributor to the automotive supply chain. Despite being a relatively small player in the global automotive industry, the Philippines has carved a niche for itself in the production and export of automotive fasteners.

● Philippine Export of Automotive Fasteners to the World

The above table presents a comprehensive overview of the annual world imports from the Philippines in thousand USD from 2012 to 2022, along with the corresponding growth rates.

Overall Trend

• A notable decrease in 2013 (-42%) marked a significant decline in Philippine automotive fastener export compared to the previous year.

• Subsequent years witnessed varying trends, with significant growths in 2017 (60%) and 2018 (218%), reaching 149 million USD.

Periods of Decline and Growth

• The years 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016 saw a decline in Philippine automotive fastener export, reflecting economic and trade dynamics during those periods. The most substantial decline occurred in 2013, attributed to various factors impacting international trade.

Recovery and Peaks

The Philippines experienced a remarkable recovery in 2017, marked by a substantial increase in world imports. The peak in 2018, with a 218% growth rate, suggests a period of increased fastener producers’ activities and global demand for Philippine automotive fasteners.

Recent Trends and Stability

In the most recent years (2020-2022), the above table indicates a fluctuating pattern, with a decrease in 2020 followed by a subsequent increase in 2021, only to decrease slightly in 2022.

Despite the fluctuations, the overall trend suggests a level of stability in recent years, with a marginal 2% decrease in 2022 compared to 2021. The negative growth in 2020 (-35%) can be associated with the global economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting trade worldwide. The subsequent recovery in 2021 and the slight decline in 2022 indicate the resilience of the Philippines in navigating challenging economic environments.

What Happened in 2018

In 2018, Philippine automotive industry faced significant challenges, marking a departure from seven years of notable growth. The decline in car sales during that year was primarily attributed to various factors, including the implementation of the revised new vehicle excise tax as part of the TRAIN law. This adjustment led to higher inflation rates and a weakening peso, creating unfavourable conditions for the domestic automotive market. Amidst these challenges, fastener manufacturers found themselves in a predicament. The automotive market, once a robust driver of their production, experienced a downturn. Faced with the imperative to sustain operations and maintain production levels, fastener manufacturers turned to export as a viable solution. Unable to halt their manufacturing processes, exporting automotive fasteners became a strategic choice to navigate the complexities of the domestic automotive landscape in 2018.

● Philippine Export of Automotive Fasteners to the ASEAN

Numbers are in 1,000 USD

The above table provides insights into the annual values of automotive fastener exports from the Philippines to ASEAN, measured in thousand USD. The corresponding growth rates highlight the evolving trends in this specific trade relationship over the analyzed period.

Fluctuations in Recent Years

Subsequent years (2018-2020) witnessed fluctuations with negative growth rates, suggesting potential challenges or shifts in demand within the ASEAN market during this period. The year 2021 marked a positive turn with a 29% growth, indicating a renewed interest in Philippine automotive fasteners.

Initial Growth and Subsequent Decline

The analysis began in 2012 with an export value of 2,244 thousand USD; however, from 2013 to 2015, a substantial decline occurs, with negative growth rates of -85%, -22%, and -25%, respectively. This period reflects challenges or shifts in the regional automotive fastener market.

Recovery and Peak

A notable recovery is observed in 2016, marked by a 97% growth rate, signalling a resurgence in the demand for Philippine automotive fasteners within ASEAN. The peak of this growth trajectory occurred in 2018, with an impressive 643% growth, indicating a significant rebound and a potential shift in market dynamics.

Exceptional Growth in 2022

The most remarkable upswing occurred in 2022, with a growth rate of 140%, reaching an export value of 2,356 thousand USD. This outstanding growth might be attributed to various factors, such as increased demand, market dynamics, or strategic business initiatives.

Factors Influencing Trends

The fluctuations in growth rates highlight the sensitivity of automotive fastener exports to various factors, including economic conditions, regional market demands, and potential shifts in the automotive industry.

Potential Opportunities and Challenges

The positive growth in 2021 and the exceptional surge in 2022 suggest potential opportunities for the Philippine automotive fastener industry within the ASEAN market. Monitoring factors that contributed to the outstanding growth in 2022 can provide insights into potential opportunities and challenges that may shape future trade dynamics.

What Happened in the Peak Times

2016: In 2016, vehicle sales in Thailand and Indonesia collectively reached 2 million units, driven by heightened local demand, increased purchasing capabilities, and substantial investments from Japanese automotive firms.

2018: Within the ASEAN region, passenger vehicle sales experienced a remarkable compound annual growth rate of 10.2 percent, surging to 3.1 million units in 2018 from 1.5 million units in 2011. Concurrently, commercial vehicle sales demonstrated robust growth at an annual rate of 9.8 percent, reaching 1.6 million units in 2018 compared to 780,000 units in 2011 (source: AAF). This upward trajectory underscores the expanding automotive market in the ASEAN region, propelled by factors such as rising consumer affluence and strategic investments.

2021-2022: In the period spanning from 2021 to 2022, automotive companies embarked on a journey of recovery following the unprecedented challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Initially hit hard by disruptions in production, supply chain constraints, and dampened consumer demand, the automotive industry gradually regained its footing, that it is caused to improve Philippine fastener export.

Philippine automotive fastener producers have earned a reputation for reliability and quality within the ASEAN region, standing out as trusted entities in the automotive manufacturing landscape. Renowned for their commitment to precision engineering and adherence to international standards, these companies have become key contributors to the global automotive supply chain. Their consistent delivery of high-quality fasteners has solidified their standing as reliable partners, garnering recognition both within the ASEAN community and on the world stage.

Copyright owned by Fastener World Article by Behrooz Lotfian

Introduction

The integration of hand tools in new developments is driven by a combination of tradition and innovation. While advanced technologies such as power tools and automation have become prevalent in various industries, hand tools continue to hold a crucial place in the construction, woodworking, and manufacturing sectors. The tactile feedback, precision, and versatility provided by hand tools remain unparalleled, allowing craftsmen and workers to perform intricate tasks with a level of control that automated machines may struggle to achieve. Moreover, hand tools are often more accessible and cost-effective, making them an attractive choice for both small-scale projects and emerging economies where sophisticated machinery may be less feasible.

What’s the in Global Hand Tools Development

全球手工具開發新趨勢

Features of a Variety of Developed Hand tools

1- Ergonomics and User-Friendly Designs

Developments in the Hand Tools

Several advancements have been witnessed in the realm of hand tools, reflecting a dynamic evolution in their design, functionality, and applications. The traditional perception of hand tools as simple, manual implements has undergone a significant transformation with the integration of cutting-edge technologies. One notable development lies in the materials used for crafting these tools, with the introduction of innovative alloys and composite materials enhancing durability and performance. Additionally, ergonomic designs have become a focal point, prioritizing user comfort and reducing the risk of fatigue during prolonged use.

Furthermore, the smart revolution has infiltrated the domain of hand tools, ushering in a new era of connected devices. Developments such as sensor integration, wireless connectivity, and data analytics are now embedded within hand tools, enabling users to monitor usage patterns, track performance metrics, and even receive real-time feedback. This fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern technological features not only elevates the precision and efficiency of hand tools but also positions them at the forefront of the smart tool landscape. These developments collectively redefine the role of hand tools, ensuring they remain indispensable in various industries while adapting to the demands of contemporary workflows.

Manufacturers are investing in research and design to create tools with ergonomically shaped handles, anti-vibration features, and user-friendly grips. These enhancements aim to reduce strain on users' hands and wrists during prolonged use.

• Strengths: Ergonomic designs significantly enhance user comfort, reduce fatigue, and improve overall efficiency. These designs focus on the natural movements of the human body, promoting a healthier work environment. The use of soft grips and anti-vibration features minimizes the risk of repetitive strain injuries.

• Weaknesses: While ergonomic designs address user comfort, they may result in slightly higher production costs. Some users with unique preferences may find certain ergonomic features less suitable, highlighting the challenge of creating universally comfortable designs.

2- Digitization and Smart Tools

Smart hand tools are incorporating digital features such as Bluetooth connectivity, mobile app integration, and data tracking. This allows users to monitor tool performance, receive usage insights, and enhance overall efficiency.

• Strengths: Smart tools offer real-time data tracking, enabling users to monitor tool performance and receive usage insights. These tools enhance precision and efficiency in various tasks, contributing to a more streamlined workflow. Bluetooth connectivity facilitates seamless integration with mobile devices for convenient control.

• Weaknesses: The integration of digital features increases the complexity of tool designs and may pose challenges for users unfamiliar with technology. Dependence on batteries and electronic components introduces potential issues related to maintenance and durability.

3- Lightweight and High-Performance Materials

Lightweight materials like titanium, aluminium alloys, and advanced composites are increasingly used in tool construction. This not only reduce the overall weight of tools but also provides durability and strength.

• Strengths: Lightweight materials contribute to reduced user fatigue during prolonged use without compromising tool strength. Advanced alloys and composites provide durability and enhance overall tool performance. Users benefit from tools that are easier to handle and transport.

• Weaknesses: The adoption of high-performance materials may lead to higher production costs. Some lightweight materials might be more prone to wear and tear in certain demanding applications, requiring careful material selection.

4- Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices

Manufacturers are adopting sustainable practices, including the use of recycled materials in tool production. Some companies focus on eco-friendly packaging, reducing waste, and implementing energy-efficient manufacturing processes.

• Strengths: Sustainable practices, including the use of recycled materials and eco-friendly manufacturing processes, appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Brands adopting these practices showcase corporate responsibility and contribute to a greener industry.

Implementing sustainable practices may initially incur additional costs. Balancing sustainability with the need for durable and reliable tools poses a challenge, as eco-friendly materials may not

5- Customization and Modular Tools

Modular hand tool systems allow users to mix and match components to create customized tool sets. This trend provides flexibility for users with specific needs, reducing the need for a large collection of individual tools.

• Strengths: Modular tool systems offer flexibility, allowing users to tailor their toolkits to specific tasks. This versatility minimizes the number of individual tools needed, providing a space-saving and costeffective solution. Users can adapt their tools to changing job requirements.

• Weaknesses: The complexity of modular systems may lead to a steeper learning curve for users unfamiliar with assembly and customization. In some cases, the interconnectivity of modular components may result in potential points of failure.

6- Innovations in Power Tools

Cordless power tools with lithium-ion battery technology become more prevalent, offering increased power and longer run times. Brushless motor technology improves efficiency and extends the lifespan of power tools.

• Strengths: Cordless power tools with advanced battery technologies provide portability and convenience. Brushless motor technology enhances efficiency, reduces maintenance requirements, and prolongs tool lifespan. Users benefit from increased power output and longer operational periods.

• Weaknesses: Cordless tools rely on rechargeable batteries, introducing the need for charging infrastructure and potential downtime. Initial costs for high-quality cordless tools and replacement batteries can be higher compared to traditional corded counterparts.

7- Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Integration

Some manufacturers experiment with AR and VR applications to provide users with interactive training experiences. These technologies are used for maintenance tutorials, assembly instructions, and virtual simulations.

• Strengths: AR and VR applications offer interactive training experiences, improving user skills and efficiency. Virtual simulations allow users to practice complex tasks in a controlled environment, reducing the risk of errors. These technologies enhance the learning curve for new tools.

• Weaknesses: Implementing AR and VR features may require additional investments in technology and training. Users not accustomed to digital interfaces may face challenges in adapting to these immersive technologies.

8-Collaborative Tools for Increased Productivity

Collaborative hand tools, especially in industrial settings, are designed to enhance teamwork and efficiency. Examples include multi-functional tools that serve various purposes, reducing the number of tools needed for a task.

• Strengths: Collaborative tools streamline teamwork and enhance overall productivity. Multi-functional tools reduce the need for an extensive toolset, promoting efficiency in various tasks. These tools cater to diverse job requirements and contribute to a more organized workspace.

• Weaknesses: The complexity of multi-functional designs may result in tools with more components, potentially increasing the risk of malfunctions. Users accustomed to traditional single-function tools may require training to adapt to collaborative designs.

9- Online Retail and E-Commerce Growth

The hand tools industry witnessed a surge in online sales through e-commerce platforms. This shift allows consumers to easily compare products, read reviews, and make purchases, contributing to the industry's digital transformation.

• Strengths: E-commerce platforms provide a convenient and accessible way for users to browse, compare, and purchase tools. Reviews and ratings on online platforms offer valuable insights for potential buyers. The digital landscape enhances the reach of tool manufacturers and retailers.

• Weaknesses: The inability to physically inspect tools before purchase may lead to challenges in assessing quality. Shipping and delivery issues, as well as potential delays, can impact the overall customer experience.

10- Focus on Safety Features

Safety-conscious designs include features like improved blade guards on cutting tools, anti-slip surfaces on handles, and advancements in impactresistant materials. Tool manufacturers prioritize user safety to minimize workplace accidents.

• Strengths: Safety-conscious designs prioritize user protection and reduce the risk of accidents. Improved blade guards, anti-slip features, and impact-resistant materials contribute to a safer work environment. Safety-focused tools enhance user confidence and minimize workplace injuries.

• Weaknesses: Incorporating additional safety features may slightly increase the weight or complexity of tools. Striking the right balance between safety and functionality requires careful engineering to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

In summary, the evolution of hand tools demonstrates a fusion of tradition and innovation, maintaining their pivotal role in various industries. Recent advancements, such as ergonomic designs, digitization, lightweight materials, sustainability practices, and safety features, underscore the industry's commitment to enhancing efficiency and adaptability. Despite strengths like improved user comfort and precision, challenges include potential cost implications, technology adoption, and a learning curve for users. As the hand tools sector continues to innovate, finding the right balance between embracing new features and addressing associated challenges will be crucial for a seamless integration into daily work practices.

Copyright owned by Fastener World / Article by Sharareh Shahidi Hamedani

年捷克緊固工具貿易統計

2021-2023 Fastening Tools Trade Statistics of Czech Republic Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Central Europe, the Czech Republic stands as a testament to industrial vigour and economic dynamism. Its landscape is a convergence of manufacturing prowess, innovative construction, and a thriving industrial ecosystem that has consistently drawn the attention of economic observers. In this article, we embark on a concise exploration, spanning three transformative years from 2021 to 2023, to unveil the trade statistics of fastening tools in the Czech Republic. This voyage will uncover import-export dynamics and illuminate the critical industries that rely on these unassuming yet indispensable instruments.

The Czech Republic, positioned as a medium-sized, open economy, derives a significant 72.7 percent of its GDP from exports, primarily propelled by the automotive and engineering sectors. Notably, a substantial 26.3 percent of these exports find their destination in the European Union (EU), with Germany serving as the foremost recipient. Beyond the EU, the United States ranks as Czech Republic's secondlargest non-EU export destination, closely following the United Kingdom.

However, recent economic indicators reveal a shifting landscape. Czech GDP growth, which stood at 3.3 percent in 2021, moderated to 2.4 percent in 2022, as reported by the Czech Statistical Office. This deceleration can be attributed, in significant part, to surging inflation rates. The inflationary surge, primarily fuelled by substantial increases in energy costs resulting from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, has been a significant contributor to the GDP downturn. In 2022, the average inflation rate soared to 15.1 percent, marking the highest level since the Czech Republic's establishment as an independent nation in 1993.

The Ministry of Finance projected a challenging economic scenario in 2023, forecasting a 0.5 percent decline in Czech GDP. This decline is anticipated to persist due to the ongoing impacts of elevated inflation rates, continuing to shape the economic landscape of the Czech Republic.

Fastening Tools in Czech Republic

Fastening tools, often the unsung heroes in the world of industry, form the bedrock of modern construction, manufacturing, automotive, and do-it-yourself (DIY) sectors. These unassuming tools encompass a wide spectrum of components, ranging from screws and bolts to nuts and rivets, as well as the specialized power and hand tools essential for their application. Let's take a closer look at how these tools have played pivotal roles in Czech Republic's key industries during the period from 2021 to 2023.

• Construction - Building Dreams and Infrastructure

Czech Republic's construction industry faces challenges due to worsening economic conditions. High energy costs and inflation resulting from the Ukraine conflict are expected to affect construction.

The rising prices of materials and energy, along with disruptions in supply chains, are expected to dampen construction growth in the coming quarters. There's also a shortage of labour in the Czech Republic, making construction costs higher. Furthermore, uncertainty related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and expected monetary policy tightening are affecting investor confidence, leading to reduced consumption and investment. This decline in demand is likely to impact new orders for the construction industry. Given these challenges, the construction industry was projected to contract by 2.4% in 2023, down from the previous estimate of 3.5%. The market is projected to achieve an AAGR of more than 3% during 2024-2027 supported by developments in the area of transportation, housing and energy sectors.

• Manufacturing - Precision and Excellence

Czech's manufacturing output is poised for substantial growth, projected to reach €203 billion by 2026, a notable increase from €178 billion recorded in 2021. This signifies a steady annual growth rate of 1.7%. Notably, Czech supply chains have been on an upward trajectory, growing at an average rate of 2.7% per year since the turn of the century.

In terms of global rankings, as of 2021, the Czech Republic secured the 13th position in manufacturing output. In comparison, Austria slightly outpaced the Czech Republic with a manufacturing output of €178 billion. Meanwhile, Italy, France, and the UK secured the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th positions, respectively.

Within this thriving manufacturing landscape, fastening tools have played an indispensable role in upholding precision and efficiency across a diverse spectrum of manufacturing industries.

• Automotive - Driving Growth

Czech automotive market is witnessing a strong rebound in demand from the COVID downturn and post-COVID supply chain bottlenecks. The market is expected to grow at a significant CAGR between 2023 and 2030.

Increasing adoptions of electric vehicles and spiking demand for advanced safety, connectivity, convenience, and driver assist features are noted to shape the modern automotive industry in Czech Republic. Increasing battery efficiency and EV charging infrastructure, and handling chip shortages are potential challenges for auto manufacturers.

The global automotive industry was supposed to enjoy a restart in 2021. However, the pandemic, disrupted logistics chains, increased demand for consumer electronics, adverse weather and the technological complexity of production have all contributed to the onset of a global chip shortage. The shortage manifested itself in full in the second half of 2021, slowing down and, in some cases, even halting car production in Czech Republic and other countries.

Despite these extensive challenges, the Czech automotive industry overcame them in 2022 and achieved good results. After three years of declining production volumes, it has also once again recorded an increase in production of +9.4%. From January to December in 2022, a total of 1,249,281 road vehicles were produced in Czech Republic.

• DIY Enthusiasts - Empowering Creativity

Going beyond their traditional industrial roles, fastening tools have found their way into the hands of DIY enthusiasts and homeowners, igniting a remarkable 12% annual upsurge in DIY and home improvement projects. These versatile tools have become the catalysts for individuals to breathe new life into their creative visions, embarking on ventures that encompass everything from substantial home renovations to the assembly of furniture and the resolution of minor repairs.

This surge in DIY activities aligns with broader market trends. In the DIY & Hardware Store market, revenues were projected to reach a significant USD 5.02 billion in 2023. This market exhibits a robust growth trajectory, with an anticipated annual increase of 4.31% (CAGR 2023-2028). On a global scale, the lion's share of revenue is generated in China, where the market was expected to reach a staggering USD 767.20 billion in 2023. When assessed relative to the total population figures, each person was expected to contribute USD 466.90 in revenue in 2023.

This surge in DIY activities not only underscores the growing popularity of hands-on projects but also reflects the expanding role of fastening tools in empowering individuals to tackle a diverse array of tasks, ushering their creative ideas from conception to reality.

Fastening Tools Trade Analysis (2021

–

2022)

Czech Republic's fastening tools trade landscape witnessed significant shifts in 2021 and 2022, affecting both imports and exports. In this analysis, we delve into the key trends, their implications, and their relationship with the top trading partners.

Exports (2021 - 2022):

In 2021, Czech Republic's fastening tools exports were valued at USD 335.79 million, which decreased to USD 290.11 million in 2022, reflecting a 13.6% decline. This reduction suggests a changing global landscape for fastening tools trade, possibly influenced by various factors such as market demand and competition.

Imports (2021 - 2022):

Imports of fastening tools into Czech Republic decreased by approximately 17.7% from USD 449.04 million in 2021 to USD 369.59 million in 2022 which could be influenced by shifting market dynamics, changes in demand, or other industry-specific factors.

Top 10 Fastening Tool Exporters to Czech Republic (2021 - 2022):

• Germany: Germany, the largest exporter, experienced a 22.21% decrease in exports to Czech Republic in 2022. This decline might be attributed to shifts in demand or competition from other suppliers.

• China and South Korea: China saw a 19.04% increase in exports to Czech Republic, indicating a strengthening market presence. Conversely, South Korea faced a significant 66.43% drop in exports, possibly due to changing market dynamics.

• Italy and Austria: Italy maintained stability in exports, while Austria increased exports by 17.56%. These variations could be influenced by market conditions and competition.

• Poland and France: Poland experienced slight growth, while France saw a considerable decline in exports to Czech Republic. Market preferences and competitive factors may have contributed to these trends.

• Japan, the U.S., and Slovakia: Japan's exports decreased significantly, highlighting a potential shift in market dynamics. The US saw export growth, which might indicate increased demand for US fastening tools in Czech Republic. Slovakia's decline in exports could be attributed to various factors affecting trade between the two countries.

• Hungary, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Belgium: Hungary's exports grew substantially, indicating competitiveness in the Czech market. The Netherlands, Switzerland, and Belgium experienced declines in exports to Czech Republic, which could be due to changing trade patterns or economic conditions.

Top 10 Fastening Tool Importers from the Czech Republic (2021 - 2022):

Steady Importers:

Germany , being a neighbouring country and a significant player in manufacturing, continued to be the largest importer of Czech fastening tools. The modest 0.55% increase in imports suggests a stable demand for these tools. This consistency can be attributed to well-established trade relations and the quality of Czech fastening tools.

Italy maintained steady imports, with a 12.45% increase. The stable relationship between the two countries indicates a consistent demand for Czech fastening tools in the Italian market. Czech exporters should focus on maintaining their competitive edge in Italy.

France witnessed a notable 39.49% increase in imports from Czech Republic, indicating an expanding market. This growth can be attributed to the quality and competitiveness of Czech fastening tools. Czech exporters should continue nurturing this market.

Fluctuating Importers:

Slovakia experienced a 9.67% decrease in imports from Czech Republic. As neighbouring countries, their trade dynamics are closely linked. The decrease may be attributed to shifts in demand or competition. Czech exporters should maintain their strong presence in this key neighbouring market.

The Netherlands saw a 16.65% decline in imports from Czech Republic. This decrease could be attributed to shifting trade patterns within the European Union or changes in the Dutch market. Czech exporters should monitor these changes to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Declining Importers:

Poland witnessed a substantial 49.05% decrease in imports of fastening tools from Czech Republic in 2022. This decline may be due to evolving supply chain strategies or increased competition from other suppliers. It's essential for Czech exporters to adapt to these changing dynamics to maintain a strong presence in the Polish market.

Austria saw a 19.21% decrease in imports of Czech fastening tools. Economic factors and market conditions likely influenced this decrease. To regain momentum, Czech exporters may need to explore opportunities to meet Austrian market demands.

Switzerland experienced a significant 43.70% decrease in imports from Czech Republic. This decline might be due to changes in trade dynamics or preferences for other suppliers. Czech exporters should explore strategies to regain their position in the Swiss market.

Belgium saw a 46.43% decrease in imports from Czech Republic. Economic factors and market conditions likely played a role in this decline. Czech exporters should focus on understanding and addressing the specific challenges in the Belgian market.

Figure 1. Top 10 Fastening Tool Exporters to Czech Republic (2021 - 2022) Czech's Import Value (million USD)

Figure 2. Top 10 Fastening Tool Importers from Czech Republic (2021 - 2022)

Growing Importers:

Hungary experienced a significant 47.43% increase in imports of fastening tools from the Czech Republic. This surge suggests that Czech fastening tools are gaining popularity in Hungary, possibly due to their quality and competitive pricing. It's crucial for Czech exporters to continue catering to this growing demand.

In summary, these fluctuations in trade reflect the dynamic nature of the fastening tools industry. Factors such as market conditions, competition, and changing trade dynamics play pivotal roles in shaping these trends. Monitoring these developments can guide strategic decisions in the fastening tools sector.

Fastening Tools Trade Analysis in 2023

The fastening tools trade in the Czech Republic for the first half of 2023 showed notable trends, with potential implications for the second half and beyond. Here, we delve into the analysis of this period and provide some forecasts.

First Half of 2023 (Jan-Jun):

During the initial half of 2023, Czech Republic's imports of fastening tools recorded fluctuations. In January, imports amounted to approximately 35.07 million USD, reflecting a 13.1% increase from the December 2022 imports, which were at 31.07 million USD. However, February witnessed a minor decline, with imports totalling about 34.25 million USD, indicating a 2.3% decrease compared to January. March witnessed a notable increase, with imports surging by approximately 20.0% to reach 41.15 million USD. April and May remained relatively stable, hovering around 41.44 million USD and 34.59 million USD, respectively. In June, there was a slight decline, with imports totalling about 39.65 million USD.

On the export front, Czech Republic displayed resilience and growth in the realm of fastening tools during the first half of 2023. Exports to the world witnessed an overall upward trajectory, starting at approximately 24.72 million USD in January. This marked a 39.3% increase compared to December 2022. The positive trend continued, with exports steadily climbing to approximately 29.18 million USD by June, reflecting a 64.3% growth over the six-month period.

These fluctuations and growth trends in both imports and exports underscore the dynamic nature of the fastening tools industry in Czech Republic in the first half of 2023.

Second Half of 2023 and Beyond (Forecast):

While the first half of 2023 showed fluctuations in imports and consistent growth in exports, it's essential to consider potential trends for the second half of the year and beyond. Several factors may come into play:

• Global Economic Conditions: The fastening tools trade can be influenced by the broader global economic situation. Any significant changes in international economic conditions, such as trade disputes or fluctuations in demand, could impact Czech Republic's trade in these tools.

• Continued Demand: The steady growth in exports during the first half of 2023 suggests sustained demand for Czechmade fastening tools. This trend may persist, especially if the global construction and manufacturing sectors continue to thrive.

• Trade Partnerships: Czech Republic's trade relationships, especially with key partners, will be crucial. Monitoring developments in these partnerships will be essential for understanding future trade dynamics.

• Market Adaptation: As global markets evolve, Czech companies may need to adapt to changing customer preferences, regulations, and technologies to remain competitive in the fastening tools industry.

As we look to the future, it's essential to acknowledge potential challenges in the global economic landscape. Factors such as trade disputes, evolving customer preferences, and changing market dynamics may influence the fastening tools trade.

Sources:

• Czech Republic Construction Market Size, Trends and Forecasts by SectorCommercial, Industrial, Infrastructure, Energy and Utilities, Institutional and Residential Market Analysis, 2022-2026

• Czech Republic Automotive Market, Size, Share, Outlook, and Growth Opportunities 2022-2030

• 2023 Investment Climate Statements: Czechia, U.S. Department of States

• DIY & Hardware Store – Czechia, Statista, 2023

• ITC Trade Map, Trade statistics for international business development

In conclusion, Czech Republic's journey in the fastening tools trade from 2021 to 2023 reflected resilience, adaptation, and a commitment to excellence. The insights gained from this analysis serve as a valuable compass for industry stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of continuous monitoring and adaptation in a rapidly evolving trade environment. Czech Republic's performance in the fastening tools trade over these three years highlights its potential for sustained growth and success in the years to come.

As the global economic landscape evolves, Czech Republic's competitive edge and strong trade ties position it well for continued success in the fastening tools industry. Continuous monitoring of these trends will be vital for strategic decisionmaking in the months and years ahead.

Figure 3. Czech Republic's Fastening Tool Trade Analysis in H1 2023 Import and Export Value (Million USD)

Overview of Automotive and Components Production and Sales in ASEAN

新興市場商機 東協主要國家汽車與零組件 產銷概況

1. Auto Production & Sales in ASEAN Show Growth

ASEAN

consisting of 10 countries has an area of 4.44 million sq. km, a population of 620 million, and a GDP of over US$3.2 trillion in 2022, making it an emerging regional organization with considerable influence. Among ASEAN 10, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia are open countries in the auto industry, and Indonesia in particular has replaced Thailand to be the largest auto market in ASEAN. However, Thailand is a country with less government intervention and protection for the auto industry. Thailand, having opened up its market, has established technical cooperation or production relationships with other int’l automakers, and is already ahead of other ASEAN countries in terms of manufacturing integration and cost competitiveness.

Compared to Thailand, Malaysia is a country protecting its auto industry. Malaysian government is committed to the development of the local auto industry and is more deeply involved in it, which in turn faces the greatest pressure to reduce tariffs or protective measures and is more resistant to liberalization issues. The main reason that Malaysian government chose to adopt a protective policy for the auto industry is due to the country’s special political and economic background and industrial environment.

Major ASEAN countries have laid the foundation for auto parts manufacturing and assembly and have the capability of

complete vehicle manufacturing and assembly. Global major car manufacturers have set up assembly factories in ASEAN and have begun to take shape due to sufficient labor, low wages, inexpensive land prices, and potentials for the development of the auto industry and market, etc. The auto industry in ASEAN is mainly concentrated in Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam and other ASEAN countries have terminated tariffs on auto imports and exempted auto parts from luxury tax. In

densely populated countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, the ratio of car ownership per capita (the numbers of cars per 1,000 people in 2022 were 245.8 in Thailand, 91.3 in Indonesia, 17.3 in Vietnam, and 35.8 in the Philippines) is relatively low compared to those of advanced countries, and the future auto parts and components business opportunities have great potential for development, both in the AM and OEM market. Japanese automakers such as Toyota, Suzuki, and Daihatsu are optimistic about the development potential of ASEAN and are actively adjusting ASEAN to become the production bases of Completely Built Unit (CBU), and are placing their business in the ASEAN and emerging countries with Small MultiPurpose Vehicles (MPVs). In comparison with the BRIC countries, vehicle ownership in ASEAN is still on the low side, and most of the citizens still use motorcycles as a means of transportation. In recent years, with the development of the economy and changes in consumer behavior, which has led to an increase in the demand for low-priced small cars, ASEAN will become an important competitive arena for major auto manufacturers in the future in terms of the global market and development trend.

Fig. 1 shows the forecast of ASEAN auto production and sales. In 2022, ASEAN auto production was 4.384 million units, an increase of 23.9% from 2021, due to the increase in production in Thailand and Indonesia. In 2023, the boom continued, with the production of 4.417 million units, an increase of 3.0% from 2022, and the sales were estimated to be 3.838 million units in 2023, an increase of 12.1% from 2022. Fig. 2 is the forecast of auto sales in major ASEAN countries. In 2022, ASEAN auto sales were 3.425 million units, a 22.7% increase from 2021, mainly due to the increase in domestic demand in Indonesia and the Philippines, resulting in sales growth, with the largest auto market in ASEAN (1.048 million units sold to Indonesia, 849,000 units sold to Thailand, and 721,000 units sold to Malaysia.)

Fig. 1

2. Indonesia — Domestic Demand is Obvious; Imports of Auto Parts are Larger Than Exports

Indonesia’s auto production scale used to be the largest in ASEAN, with an early start and supported by the domestic demand, giving it an advantage over other ASEAN countries in terms of industry development. Indonesia has the potential of the domestic demand market and natural resources, coupled with the implementation of the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA), which has eliminated the 5% tariffs on autos and auto parts between the 6 ASEAN founding member countries (i.e., Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, the Philippines, and Indonesia), making it easy for autos and auto parts to be exported from Indonesia to the ASEAN countries, and with a competitive edge in terms of cost.

Indonesian government has listed auto assembly manufacturing as a key development industry and will actively promote the development of the auto industry in the next 5 years in the hope of replacing Thailand as the largest auto assembly production base in Southeast Asia. In 2011, the flooding in Thailand resulted in the dislocation of the auto parts supply chain and an imbalance between supply and demand, and major auto manufacturers realizing the concentration of production bases in a single place (Thailand) have been seeking a 2nd or 3rd production location. Indonesia has a large domestic market and natural resources, and coupled with the implementation of ASEAN countries’ free trade zones, Indonesia is looking forward to obtaining the opportunities to become the regional production center of auto assemblies and components in ASEAN.

Due to new vehicle models being put into production and the expansion of the domestic market, the demand for locally produced auto parts in Indonesia has become larger and major auto and auto parts manufacturers have continued to strengthen their investment and plant establishment in Indonesia. The components required for auto assembly in Indonesia are mainly imported in the form of semi-bulk parts, such as auto electronics, gearboxes, chassis, engine systems, steering mechanisms & systems, drive shaft components, brakes and suspension systems and other components, all of which are imported. Fig. 3 shows the sales value of auto parts in Indonesia. The sales values of Indonesia’s auto parts (HS: 8708, other auto parts) was US$8.65 billion in 2022, an increase of 11.7% from 2021.

Fig. 4 shows the import and export values of Indonesia’s auto parts. In 2022, the export value of Indonesia’s auto parts was US$2.89 billion, an increase of 2.3% from 2021.

Due to the lack of a complete supply chain in Indonesia’s auto parts industry, most semi-finished components and engine systems, automatic transmissions and other key components rely on imports, characterized by a market in which the value of imports exceeds the value of exports. In 2022, the import value of auto parts in Indonesia was USD 5.67 billion. In 2023, it was forecasted that the import value would be USD 5.81 billion, a growth of 2.4% from 2022 due to the factors of political and economic stabilization in Indonesia and the increase in auto ownership.

Fig. 5 shows the major import origins and their share in Indonesia’s total auto parts import in 2022. Most auto parts of Indonesia were imported from Japanese manufacturers, and the major import origins were Japan (41.0%), Thailand (35.8%), China (5.1%), Germany (4.4%), and Malaysia (3.5%), with the top 5 countries accounting for 89.8% of the total imported auto parts. Fig. 6 shows the major destinations of Indonesia’s auto parts export in 2022, and the major export destinations were Thailand (24.6%), Japan (13.7%), Malaysia (13.4%), Brazil (5.8%), and India (5.7%), with the top 5 export destinations accounting for 63.2% of the total exported auto parts.

Fig. 2

Fig. 3

Fig. 4

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) has listed the auto industry as one of the “Top 5 Industries for Investment Promotion” and has taken incentives to attract more multinational auto manufacturers to set up factories in Thailand. Under the ASEAN Industrial Cooperation Scheme (AICO), auto parts can enjoy tariffs of 0-5% in the ASEAN region, and tariffs on imports into Thailand have been reduced to 5%, provided they meet the 40% origin criteria. Autos have become Thailand’s 5th largest export items, and its auto export ranked 1st among ASEAN and ranked 3rd in Asia, only after Japan and S. Korea. Thailand not only has become the ASEAN’s largest auto assembly base, but also the world’s top 10 car manufacturing countries. There are 16 auto assembly factories and 1,800 parts manufacturers in Thailand. Its industry focuses on development of pick-up trucks, and the output is only second to the U.S., which is a major factor that has contributed to the development of the auto parts industry.

Fig. 7 is the forecast of Thai auto parts market. In 2022 Thai auto parts sales value was 16.94 billion USD. It was predicted that in 2023 Thai domestic auto parts would be still in strong demand, with the sales value of 18.39 billion USD, an increase of 8.6% over the previous year. Fig. 8 is the forecast of Thai import and export values of auto parts, showing that the value of exports exceeds the value of imports. As Thailand is the main overseas production base of Japanese vehicle manufacturers, the injection of resources is relatively more and the main key components (such as engines and gearboxes) are mostly imported from Japan.

3. Thailand The 2nd Production Base of Japanese Car Manufacturers and Components

Inorder to strengthen the development of the local industry and achieve the economic scale of production, Thailand restricts the types of domestic assembled vehicles, further enhances the nationalization and promotes the development of the component industry, and establishes The Thai Auto-Parts Manufacturers Association (TAPMA) as a national unification mechanism to provide the component industry with a mechanism for industry integration and development. Thailand announced a ban on “complete vehicle imports” and an increase in the tariff on “components imported to assemble” as a means of protecting the domestic auto industry. The number of local Thai component manufacturers has grown year after year under the government’s dual policy of ceasing to grant production privileges and increasing the proportion of locally-produced components.

AfterThailand’s accession to WTO, the restriction on the place of origin of auto parts must be abolished, allowing multinational enterprises to set up whollyowned enterprises. As a result of the liberalization, the auto assembly has been led by foreign investors, while the local manufacturers have turned into the supply chain of components, forming a system with a division of labor in the industry. In addition, the regional integration of AFTA has accelerated the liberalization of the automotive industry. According to AFTA regulations, the import tariffs and non-tariffs of existing ASEAN member countries (Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand) have been lowered to 0-5%.

Fig. 5

Fig. 6

Fig. 7

Fig. 9 shows the major import origins and their share in Thailand’s total auto parts import in 2022. Most exporters were Japanese manufacturers and the major import origins were Japan (49%), China (24.9%), Germany (7.5%), the U.S. (2.3%), and Indonesia (2.2%), with the top 5 countries accounting for 85.9% of

Fig. 8

the total imported auto parts. Fig. 10 shows the major export destinations of Thai auto parts (HS8708) and their share in 2022. Major export destinations were Japan (11.2%), Indonesia (10.0%), Malaysia (9.2%), China (7.9%), and the U.S. (7.2%), with the top 5 export destinations accounting for 45.5% of the total exported auto parts.

4. Malaysia — Governmentled Development of Domestic Vehicle Industry

Malaysia is committed to the development of the national car industry. Its cars have been domestically processed in terms of design, large-scale production, and integrated production of components. There are currently four domestic car manufacturers, namely Proton, Perodua, Inokom, and MTB, of which the first two are developing passenger cars. In order to face increasingly fierce int’l competition, declining proportion of domestic vehicles in the market, and maintain its advantage in domestic vehicles, Malaysia is actively developing into an auto assembly and production center of ASEAN. Most of the auto parts produced in Malaysia are made from raw materials that can be obtained domestically, and the technological level of the components is relatively low, labor-intensive and less valueadded or highly polluting components, such as tires, forging, casting, stamping, and other manufacturing industries. Fig. 11 shows the sales values of auto parts in Malaysia, with the sales value in 2022 being US$4.13 billion, an increase of 12.3% from 2021.

Fig. 12 shows the import and export values of Malaysian auto parts, with US$2.72 billion import and US$910 million export in 2022. More than 70% of Malaysian auto parts are supplied to the OES, and most of the exported auto parts belong to the lower technology level, such as body panels, bumpers, brake pad components, or exhaust (pipe) systems, while high value-added key components (such as engine systems, automatic transmission, etc.) are imported, making Malaysia an ASEAN country whose import value of auto parts is larger than the value of its export value.

Fig. 13 shows the major import origins and their share in Malaysia’s total auto parts import in 2022, which were Thailand (34.9%), Japan (23.3%), China (12.7%), Germany (12.3%), and Indonesia (7.4%), accounting for 90.6% of the total. Fig. 14 shows Malaysia’s auto parts major export destinations and their shares. The top 5 export destinations were Thailand (10.9%), Indonesia (9.4%), Singapore (9.3%), Japan (8.1%), China (6.7%), accounting for 44.4% of the total.

Fig. 9

Fig. 10

Fig. 11

Fig. 12

Fig. 13

5. Conclusions and Suggestions

Facing

diversified demand for low-cost autos, small cars, and new energy vehicles in ASEAN such as Indonesia, manufacturers are advised to get rid of the habit of copying auto parts, enter the supply chain system of auto parts OEMs, utilize Taiwan’s ICT technological advantages to develop innovative products with price differentiation (e.g., automatic transmission and drive mechanism, GPS, car recorder, car game and entertainment system, driver safety assistance system, and other high value-added products), and proactively lay out the auto parts market in Indonesia as early as possible, in addition to maintaining their original competitive advantages in AM and the global supply market.

Thai BOI provides support and incentives for industrial clusters in 7 provinces, incl. human resources, technology development, infrastructure development and logistics systems, tax and non-tax incentives, and financial and regulatory changes, to promote foreign investment. Thailand’s key auto parts raw materials are mostly supplied by Japan; however, labor shortages and high production costs and other factors in Japan have resulted in high cost of raw materials and manufacturing. Taiwanese and Japanese manufacturers (incl. auto and auto parts manufacturers) have kept close relations for long, so Taiwan’s R&D and technological capabilities may bring more component substitution or OEM opportunities.

Taiwan’s auto parts manufacturers should follow the local government’s policy on the auto industry and carefully select partners to match the direction of the government’s consolidation of domestic assembly capacity, for example, by choosing to cooperate with existing assembly or overcapacity companies, especially those with a government background, to improve the quality of components in order to obtain the support of the government; and, secondly, by adopting a flexible and diversified approach to cooperation, which can initially be adopted by exporting parts for assembly to Malaysia, and then selling them under the current Malaysian domestic vehicle brands, or by assembly of bulk components in Malaysia, and then reselling them under their own brands in Malaysia and to ASEAN.

Data source: ASEAN Automotive Federation; Global Trade Atlas; ITRI IEK

Copyright owned by Fastener World / Article by James Hsiao

Fig.

Trimmed for Fastener Business Owners!

CBAM Regulation, the Lightweight Version

For those who struggle with the daunting length of CBAM regulation in full text, Fastener World editors have gone through all 53 pages of the regulation, and extracted the essential parts into a brief article for fastener business owners. This article will help you get familiar with at least 80% of the core context of CBAM, and help you get into the swing of it.

The editors have slightly simplified abstruse statements in the Regulation and cut out repetitive and redundant words and phrases to make it easier to read. Without further ado, here are the key CBAM excerpts.

» Critical Definitions

1. ‘Direct emissions’ means emissions from the production processes of goods, including emissions from the production of heating and cooling that is consumed during the production processes, irrespective of the location of the production of the heating or cooling. For 7318 – screws, bolts, nuts, coach screws, screw hooks, rivets, cotters, cotter pins, carbon dioxide washers (including spring washers) and similar articles of iron or steel, only direct emissions are to be taken into account.

2. ‘Indirect emissions’ means emissions from the production of electricity which is consumed during the production processes of goods, irrespective of the location of the production of the consumed electricity.

3. ‘Embedded emissions’ means direct emissions released during the production of goods and indirect emissions from the production of electricity that is consumed during the production processes. The authorized CBAM declarant shall keep records of the information required to calculate the embedded emissions until the end of the fourth year after the year in which the CBAM declaration has been or should have been submitted.

4. ‘Actual emissions’ means the emissions calculated based on primary data from the production processes of goods and from the production of electricity consumed during those processes.

5. ‘Ton of CO2e’ means one metric ton of CO2.

6. ‘CBAM certificate’ means a certificate in electronic format corresponding to one ton of CO2e of embedded emissions in goods.

7. ‘Surrender’ means offsetting of CBAM certificates against the declared embedded emissions in imported goods or against the embedded emissions in imported goods that should have been declared.

8. ‘Default value’ means a value calculated or drawn from secondary data, which represents the embedded emissions in goods. When actual emissions cannot be adequately determined by the authorized CBAM declarant, default values shall be used. When reliable data for the exporting country cannot be applied for a type of goods, the default values shall be based on the average emission intensity of the X % worst performing EU ETS installations for that type of goods.

9. ‘Carbon price’ means the monetary amount paid in a third country, under a carbon emissions reduction scheme, in the form of a tax, levy or fee or in the form of emission allowances under a greenhouse gas emissions trading system, calculated on greenhouse gases covered by such a measure, and released during the production of goods.

10. ‘Installation’ means a stationary technical unit where a production process is carried out.

11. ‘Operator’ means any person who operates or controls an installation in a third country.

12. ‘National accreditation body’ is appointed by each Member State.

» Obligations and Rights of Authorized CBAM Declarants

1. Goods shall be imported into the customs territory of the Union only by an authorized CBAM declarant.

2. Any importer established in a Member State shall, prior to importing goods into the customs territory of the Union, apply for the status of authorized CBAM declarant.

3. Where an importer is not established in a Member State, the indirect customs representative shall submit the application for an authorization.

4. The application for an authorization shall include the following information about the applicant:

(a) Name, address and contact information

(b) EORI number

(c) Main economic activity carried out in the Union

(d) Certification by the tax authority in the Member State where the applicant is established that the applicant is not subject to an outstanding recovery order for national tax debts

(e) Declaration that the applicant was not involved in any serious infringements or repeated infringements of customs legislation, taxation rules or market abuse rules during the five years preceding the year of the application, including that it has no record of serious criminal offences relating to its economic activity

(f) Information necessary to demonstrate the applicant’s financial and operational capacity to fulfil its obligations

(g) Estimated monetary value and volume of imports of goods into the customs territory of the Union by type of goods, for the calendar year during which the application is submitted, and for the following calendar year

(h) Names and contact information of the persons on behalf of whom the applicant is acting, if applicable

5. The applicant may withdraw its application at any time.

» CBAM Declaration

1. By 31 May of each year, and for the first time in 2027, each authorized CBAM declarant shall use the CBAM registry to submit a CBAM declaration for the preceding calendar year.

2. The CBAM declaration shall contain the following information:

(a) Total quantity of each type of goods imported during the preceding calendar year, expressed in megawatt-hours for electricity and in tons for other goods

(b) Total embedded emissions in the goods, expressed in tons of CO2e emissions per megawatt-hour of electricity or, for other goods, in tons of CO2e emissions per ton of each type of goods

(c) Total number of CBAM certificates to be surrendered

(d) Copies of verification reports, issued by accredited verifiers

» Carbon Price Paid in a Third Country

1. An authorized CBAM declarant may claim in the CBAM declaration a reduction in the number of CBAM certificates to be surrendered in order to take into account the carbon price paid in the country of origin for the declared embedded emissions. The reduction may be claimed only if the carbon price has been effectively paid in the country of origin. In such a case, any rebate or other form of compensation available in that country that would have resulted in a reduction of that carbon price shall be taken into account.

2. The authorized CBAM declarant shall keep records of the documentation required to demonstrate that the declared embedded emissions were subject to a carbon price in the country of origin of the goods that has been effectively paid. The authorized CBAM declarant shall in particular keep evidence related to any rebate or other form of compensation available, in particular the references to the relevant legislation of that country. The information contained in that documentation shall be certified by a person that is independent from the authorized CBAM declarant and from the authorities of the country of origin. The name and contact information of that independent person shall appear on the documentation. The authorized CBAM declarant shall also keep evidence of the actual payment of the carbon price until the end of the fourth year after the year during which the CBAM declaration has been or should have been submitted.

» Registration of Operators and of Installations in Third Countries

1. The request for registration shall contain the following information to be included in the CBAM registry upon registration:

(a) the name, address and contact information of the operator

(b) the location of each installation including the complete address and geographical coordinates expressed in longitude and latitude, including six decimals

(c) the main economic activity of the installation

2. The Commission shall notify the operator of the registration in the CBAM registry. The registration shall be valid for a period of five years from the date of its notification to the operator of the installation.

3. The operator may, at any time, ask to be deregistered from the CBAM registry. The Commission shall, upon such request, and after notifying the competent authorities, deregister the operator and delete the information on that operator and on its installation from the CBAM registry.

» Professional Secrecy and Disclosure of Information

1. All information acquired by the competent authority or the Commission in the course of performing their duties which is by its nature confidential or which is provided on a confidential basis shall be covered by the obligation of professional secrecy. Such information shall not be disclosed by the competent authority or the Commission without the express prior permission of the person or authority that provided it or by virtue of Union or national law.

2. By way of derogation from paragraph 1, the competent authorities and the Commission may share such information with each other, the customs authorities, the authorities in charge of administrative or criminal penalties, and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, for the purposes of ensuring compliance of persons with their obligations under this Regulation and the application of customs legislation. Such shared information shall be covered by professional secrecy and shall not be disclosed to any other person or authority except by virtue of Union or national law.

» Accreditation of Verifiers

1. A national accreditation body may, on request, accredit a person to be a verifier for the purpose of this Regulation.

» Review of CBAM Declarations

1. The Commission may review CBAM declarations, in accordance with a review strategy, including risk factors, within the period ending with the fourth year after the year during which the CBAM declarations should have been submitted.

2. Where the competent authority concludes that the declared number of CBAM certificates to be surrendered is incorrect, it shall determine the number of CBAM certificates which should have been surrendered by the authorized CBAM declarant, taking into account the information submitted by the Commission. The competent authority shall notify the authorized CBAM declarant of its decision on the number of CBAM certificates determined and shall request that the authorized CBAM declarant surrender the additional CBAM certificates within one month.

3. Where the competent authority concludes that the number of CBAM certificates surrendered exceeds the number which should have been surrendered, it shall inform the Commission without delay. The CBAM certificates surrendered in excess shall be repurchased.

» Sale of CBAM Certificates

1. A Member State shall sell CBAM certificates on a common central platform to authorized CBAM declarants established in that Member State.

2. The Commission shall ensure that each CBAM certificate is assigned a unique identification number upon its creation. The Commission shall register the unique identification number and the price and date of sale of the CBAM certificate in the CBAM registry in the account of the authorized CBAM declarant purchasing that certificate.

» Price of CBAM Certificates

1. The Commission shall calculate the price of CBAM certificates as the average of the closing prices of EU ETS allowances on the auction platform, in accordance with the procedures, for each calendar week. For those calendar weeks in which no auctions are scheduled on the auction platform, the price of CBAM certificates shall be the average of the closing prices of EU ETS allowances of the last week in which auctions on the auction platform took place.

2. The Commission shall publish the average price on its website or in any other appropriate manner on the first working day of the following calendar week. That price shall apply from the first working day following that of its publication to the first working day of the following calendar week.

» Surrender of CBAM Certificates

1. By 31 May of each year, and for the first time in 2027 for the year 2026, the authorized CBAM declarant shall surrender via the CBAM registry a number of CBAM certificates that corresponds to the embedded emissions declared for the calendar year preceding the surrender. The authorized CBAM declarant shall ensure that the required number of CBAM certificates is available on its account in the CBAM registry.

2. The authorized CBAM declarant shall ensure that the number of CBAM certificates on its account in the CBAM registry at the end of each quarter corresponds to at least 80% of the embedded emissions in all goods it has imported since the beginning of the calendar year.

» Repurchase of CBAM Certificates

1. Where an authorized CBAM declarant so requests, the Member State where that authorized CBAM declarant is established shall repurchase the excess CBAM certificates remaining on the account of the declarant in the CBAM registry after the certificates have been surrendered. The Commission shall repurchase the excess CBAM certificates through the common central platform on behalf of the Member State where the authorized CBAM declarant is established. The authorized CBAM declarant shall submit the repurchase request by 30 June of each year during which CBAM certificates were surrendered.

2. The number of certificates subject to repurchase shall be limited to one third of the total number of CBAM certificates purchased by the authorized CBAM declarant during the previous calendar year.

3. The repurchase price for each CBAM certificate shall be the price paid by the authorized CBAM declarant for that certificate at the time of purchase.

» Rules Applicable to the Importation of Goods

1. The customs authorities shall not allow the importation of goods by any person other than an authorized CBAM declarant.

2. The customs authorities may communicate confidential information acquired by the customs authorities in the course of performing their duties, or provided to the customs authorities on a confidential basis, to the Commission and the competent authority of the Member State that has granted the status of the authorized CBAM declarant.

» Penalties

1. An authorized CBAM declarant who fails to surrender, by 31 May of each year, the number of CBAM certificates that corresponds to the emissions embedded in goods imported during the preceding calendar year shall be held liable for the payment of a penalty. Such a penalty shall be applicable in the year of importation of the goods.

2. Where a person other than an authorized CBAM declarant introduces goods into the customs territory of the Union without complying with the obligations under this Regulation, that person shall be held liable for the payment of a penalty. Such a penalty shall be an amount from three to five times the penalty referred to in paragraph 1. The payment of the penalty shall not release the authorized CBAM declarant from the obligation to surrender the outstanding number of CBAM certificates in a given year.

» Circumvention

1. Practices of circumvention shall be defined as a change in the pattern of trade in goods, which stems from a practice, process or work which may consist of, but is not limited to:

(a) Slightly modifying the goods concerned to make those goods fall under CN codes which are not listed, except where the modification alters their essential characteristics

(b) Artificially splitting shipments into consignments the intrinsic value of which does not exceed the threshold

» Scope of the Transitional Period

During the transitional period from 1 October 2023 until 31 December 2025, where the importer is established in a Member State and appoints an indirect customs representative, and where the indirect customs representative so agrees, the reporting obligations shall apply to such indirect customs representative. Where the importer is not established in a Member State, the reporting obligations shall apply to the indirect customs representative.

That’s a Wrap

There you go. Fastener World keeps tabs on CBAM and for latest updates, check out www.fastener-world.com and our publications.

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AD page: 46

CHIEH LING SCREWS

ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Hex-key Wrenches / L-bend Socket Wrenches / Alloy Steel Screws / A2 Cap Screw / Button Head Cap Screws / Button Head Socket Cap Screws / Torx Drive System

Screws / Flat Head & Socket Head Cap

Screws / High Strength Stainless Steel Screws / Multi-stage Screw & Parts / Multi-strokes Special Screws/Bolts / Special Nuts jhieh.ling@msa.hinet.net www.jhiehling.com

捷領螺絲興業股份有限公司

ISO-9001

CHIAO CHANG PNEUMATIC TOOL CORP.

Blind Nuts / Rivet Nuts / Rivets / Air Tools

General / Air Shears / Pneumatic Hand Tools In General / Hand Tools In General / Hand Rivet Tools, Hand Rivet Nut / Rivet Bolt Tools, Air Hydraulic Rivet / Rivet Nut Tools / Cutting Tools In General / Cordless Power Tools / Powered Tools In General / Auto Repair Tools

info@ccp-tw.com.tw www.ccptool.com

喬章實業股份有限公司

CE, ISO-9001, TÜV, D&B D-U-N-S

CHIN TAI SING PRECISION MANUFACTORY

Brass Insert / Machining Part / Turning Part / CNC / Assembly Part / Components / Selfclinching Nuts inquiry@ctsp-insert.com.tw www.ctsp-insert.com.tw 金泰興精密緊固有限公司 ISO-9001, IATF16949

AD page: 130

CHITE ENTERPRISES CO., LTD.

Chipboard Screws / Drywall Screws / Selfdrilling Screws / All Kinds of Screws / Customized Special Screws/Bolts / Multi-stroke Special Screws/Bolts / Weld Nuts / Stamped Parts / Customized Bolts, All Kinds of Nuts, Customized Nuts, Washers, Machining Parts, Hand Tools, Anchors, Customized Fasteners bill@chite.com.tw www.chite.com.tw

尚余企業股份有限公司

ISO-9001, ISO/IEC-17025, ISO-14001, ISO-45001

AD page: 67

Screw

cct.com@msa.hinet.net

www.cctech.com.tw

浚展科技股份有限公司

info@chumyuan.com.tw

www.chumyuan.com

琛元企業有限公司

CE, ISO-9001:2015

AD

cosmo.tool@msa.hinet.net

www.fastener-world.com/en/supplier/cos

AD

ch.casters@gmail.com www.chcaster.com

群弘興業有限公司

ele.shine@msa.hinet.net

sales@e-ray.com.tw

AD page: 73

EVEREON INDUSTRIES, INC.

Hose Clamps / Stainless Steel Hose Clamp & Cable Ties / Hose Clamp Screws / Construction Fasteners / Building Parts

hoseclamp@evereon.com.tw

www.ydsevereon.com

永德興股份有限公司 ISO-9001, TAF, TÜV

EVER-TOP HARDWARE CORP.

Automotive Nuts / Castle Nuts / Flange Nuts / Heavy Nuts / Tee or T Nuts / Weld Nuts / Spacers / Cold Forged Nuts / Acme Nuts / Special Nuts

ethc@evertop-nut.com

www.evertop-nut.com

祥頂實業股份有限公司

IATF16949, ISO-9001

AD page: 18

GREAT BEAR ENTERPRISE CORPORATION

Mechanical

gbec@ms12.hinet.net

www.greatbearhardware.com 宏松事業股份有限公司 ISO-9001

GREAT NORTH

FONYI ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Precision

fonyiprecision@gmail.com

www.fonyi.com

鋒毅實業有限公司 ISO-9001

AD page: 31

HAI

2-die

hiyen.changh@msa.hinet.net

www.fastener-world.com/en/supplier/ haiyuanchang

海源彰興工科技有限公司

grtnorth@ms51.hinet.net

www.the-bearings.com 智寶國際有限公司

AD page: 71

HAN CHI INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Eye Bolts / SUS Eye Bolts / Eye Nuts (Material:

C1017, C1020, SS41, SUS 304) / American Shoulder BS Standard Eye Bolts / DIN 580 Standard Eye Bolts / DIN 580 Standard Eye Nuts / Safety Washers

hc541@ms26.hinet.net

www.han-chi.com.tw

暵記實業有限公司

ISO-9001

AD page: 91

HARPOR CO., LTD.

Special Screws & Bolts / Sems Screws / Security Screws / Special Nuts / Lock Nuts / Rivets / Machining Parts / Stamping Parts / Industrial Parts / Customized Parts By Drawings / Tools & Bits Sets / One-Stop Purchasing Services

mike@harpor-tw.com

www.harpor-tw.com

浩泊有限公司

AD

AD page: 5

HOMEEASE INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Caulking Guns / Glue Guns / Powered Tools in

/ Electronic Repair Kits / Pneumatic

Tools in General / Woodworking Tools in General / Products for Decoration & Tools / Building Tools / Furniture Fittings / Auto Repair Tools / Lighting Fixtures / Tool Kits / Auto Carton Forming Machines-Hot Melt

Glue Type & Stapler Type

homeease@homeease.com.tw www.homeease.com.tw

宏鎰工業股份有限公司

CE, TÜV, ISO-9001:2015

AD

eilly2004@yahoo.com.tw

AD page: 36

HOU LIH CO., LTD.

Wooden Building Materials / Kitchen Cabinets And Hutches / Storage Racks / Kitchen Wall Units / Storage Stands / Other Hardware Equipment / Accessories / Products

sales@houlih.com.tw www.houlih.com.tw

厚俐有限公司

HSIAN JI BEARING CO., LTD.

Plastic Bearing / Thrust Bearing / Stamping Bearing / Slide Bearing / Ball Bearing / Special Bearing / Non-Standard Bearing

hsianji@ms81.hinet.net www.hsianji.com

祥益軸承有限公司

AD page:35

HWAGUO INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS CO., LTD.

Spring Pins / Cage Nuts / U Nuts / Retaining Ring / Rivets / Lock Washers / Clip Nuts / Blind Nuts / Rivet Nuts / Multi-die Forming Fasteners / Cap Nuts / Special Washers / Springs

sales@hwaguo.com

www.hwaguo.com

華國五金有限公司 ISO-9001, TÜV

AD page: 42

IOU GOOD JYI INDUSTRY CO., LTD.

igj.ltd@msa.hinet.net

www.igj.com.tw

優吉工業有限公司 ISO-9001:2015

J.

iwashi@vip.163.com

yeswin@vip.163.com www.iwashi.asia

info@jtfasteners.com.tw

www.jtfasteners.com.tw

金祐昇實業有限公司

D&B D-U-N-S, ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 4

JGB INDUSTRIAL INC.

Precision Metal Parts / Shoulder Screws / Dowel Pins /

JIAXING HAINA FASTENER CO., LTD.

Screw / Washer / Solar Hanger Bolt / Roof hook, and Aluminum Fitting for Solar

tony@hainafastener.com

www.hainasolar.com

嘉興海納緊固件有限公司

info@jgb.tw www.jgb.tw

金城工業有限公司 ISO-9001:2015

ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 39

JIN HSIANG ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

CNC

Clinch

AD page: 75 JIH HSIN KUN SCREW CO., LTD.

Sockets / Magnetic tools / Special Screws / Automotive Parts

service@jhk-screws.com.tw www.jhk-screws.com.tw

日新崑螺絲有限公司

ISO-9001

AD page: 10

Special

fooh.ming@msa.hinet.net

www.fastener-world.com/en/supplier/jinta

sales@jinhsiang.com

www.jinhsiang.com

金詳企業股份有限公司

ISO-9001, ISO-13485

jam@jinsc.com.tw

www.jinsc.com.tw

金欣全精密工業股份有限公司

ISO-9001

AD page: 7

KAI SUH SUH ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Cable Ties / Wire / Cable Clamps / Bushing / Tubes / Frame Plugs & Screws / Terminal Pins

kss@mail.kss.com.tw

www.kss.com.tw

凱士士企業股份有限公司

CE, ISO-14001, ISO-9001, ISO-45001, IATF16949, ISO/IEC-17025, UL, CSA, VDE, DNV.GL, LR, ABS, IP68, RoHS

AD page: 47

KANON PRECISION CO., LTD.

CNC Machining Parts / Precision CNC Machining Parts / Spacer / Connector / Shaft / Pin

kanon@kanonprecision.com

www.kanonprecision.com

鉅創國際五金有限公司

ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 37

KAN

GOOD

ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Screw Pack Bags / Machine Screws / Tapping

Screws / Set Screws / Long Nuts / Brass Nuts / Post Studs & Studs / Standoffs / Hex Allen Wrench / Pins & Spring Pins / Split Lock Washers / Threaded Rods / Smooth Rods / Springs / Forging Parts / Stamping Parts / Plastic Injection

Parts / All Sort of Special Fasteners for Home & Hardware, Contruction Automotive Industries

kangood.co@msa.hinet.net

www.kangoodco.com

鋼固企業股份有限公司

ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 48

KAY-TAI FASTENERS INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Chipboard Screws / Combined Screws / Customized Special Screws/Bolts / Flat Head & Socket Head Cap Screws / Machine Screws / Furniture Screws / Hexagon Head Cap Screws / Multi-strokes Special Screws/Bolts / Wood Screws / Washer Head Screws / Assembly Captive Screws / Countersunk Screws

keti.jo12772656@gmail.com

www.fastener-world.com/en/ supplier/kay-tai

鍇泰工業有限公司

ISO-9001

KANG TAI INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Hex-key Wrenches / Hex Keys / Bit & Bits

Sets / Screwdrivers / Hand Tools in General / Hand Tools / Pneumatic Hand Tools in General / Hex Stand-off / Secondary Product Processing Service

kt.hexkey1993@gmail.com

www.kt-tool.com

康鈦實業社

AD page: 29

KING YUAN DAR METAL ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Heat Treatment Furnace / Vibratory Finishing

kyd_contact@kingyuandar.com

kingyuandar.com

金元達金屬股份有限公司

AD page: 30

KINGBOLT METAL CO., LTD.

Steel (or Stainless Steel) Stamping / Pressing Assembling Parts / Hardware Products

kingbolt.tw@gmail.com

www.kingboltco.com.tw

金才寶五金有限公司

AD page: 24

KUENYUEH INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Square and Round Tube Connector / Square and Round Tube Adaptor / Spring Snap and Special Nuts

sales@kuenyueh.com.tw www.kuenyueh.com.tw

崑岳工業有限公司

AD page: 83

lenco1689@lenco.com.tw www.lenco.com.tw

連鴻企業股份有限公司 ISO-9001,

AD page: 27

lydsauto@ms54.hinet.net

www.lydsauto.com.tw

利運機械股份有限公司

KUOLIEN SCREW INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Drywall Screw (very fast penetration speed) / Roofing Screw with EPDM Washer / Self Drilling Screw –Wing Tek Screw / Collated Screw / Wood Construction Screw / SEMS Screw / Multi-Blowing forming / Hi-Lo Thread Screws / PT Screws / Wafer Head Screws / Triangular Thread Screws / Hexagon Washer Head Screws/Bolts

sales2@kuolien.com.tw Ben@kuolien.com.tw www.kuolien.com

國聯螺絲工業股份有限公司

ISO-9001, IATF16949

AD page: 81

Professional

ly.aluminumforging@gmail.com

www.fastener-world.com/en/

鋁穎實業有限公司 ISO-9001

AD page: 66

LUNA'S LIGHT INTERNATIONAL SOURCING CORPORATION

CNC Machined Parts / CNC Turning Parts / Precision Parts / Assembly Parts / OEM Fasteners / Screws / Nuts / CNC Swiss Parts / Electrical Parts / Auto Parts / Brass Insert / Brass Parts / Stamping Parts

info@lunasinternational.com

www.lunasinternational.com 月光精密有限公司

ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 38

mrcl.w7069@msa.hinet.net

www.bit-holder.com.tw

孟銳有限公司

MAO SHENG PRECISION CO., LTD.

CNC Lathes / Automotive Parts and Components / Electronic Components / Machine Tool Parts / Screws and Hardware Parts / Reusable Chopsticks / Copper Seals

s2301027@yahoo.com.tw

www.fastener-world.com/en/supplier/ maosheng 懋盛精密有限公司

ISO-9001:2015

AD

ncg@ncgtools.com

www.ncgtools.com

AD page: 61

MATPRO SEIKI CO., LTD.

Plastic Injection / Cold Foring /

/ Powder Metallurgy / Secondary Turning / Heat Treatment / Surface Treatment / Special Packaging, etc.

steven-pai@matpro.com.tw

www.matpro.com.tw

旺鋐精密開發有限公司 ISO-9001

sales@kmount.com

www.kmount-tools.com

寧波(越南)金山行五金有限公司

AD page: 25

NOVUMTEC EURASIAN ASSOCIATED CO.

Sockets / Bits / Screwdriver Bits

box@gfb.com.tw

www.gfb.com.tw

歐邦貿易股份有限公司

AD page: 20 PAR EXCELLENCE INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Grooved Pins / Bonded Washers / Flat Washers / Tubular Rivets / Prevailing Torque Nuts / Metric or Inch Screws or Bolts or nuts / Screws or Nuts PER PRINT in Alloyed Steel or Stainless Steel / Aluminum or Brass Button Head Cap Screws / Turning/CNC Parts

par@parexcel.com.tw

www.parexcel.com.tw 拔利貿易有限公司

ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 127 PRIMERA

AD page: 33 POINT SCREW ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Precision Electronic Screws / Special Screws / Combined Screws / Custom Bolts / Fitting-up Bolts / Milled Bolts / Hex Standoff / All Kinds of Screws / Fastener Kits / SEMS Screws / Turning Parts

sales@pointscrew.com

www.pointscrew.com

鑫笙企業有限公司 ISO-9001

AD page: 22 RAH

info@ppctw.com

www.ptc.com.tw

普力美科技有限公司

IATF16949, ISO-9001

Turning

cnc1@primest.com.tw

www.primest.com.tw

ISO-9001

sales@rah-alliance.com

www.rah-alliance.com

曜賢企業有限公司 ISO-9001

BUYERS'

AD page: 15

RAY FU ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Chipboard Screws / Drywall Screws / Furniture Screws / Wood Screws / Thread Cutting Screws / Roofing Screws / Selfdrilling Screws / Machine Screws / Twinfast Woodscrews / Deck Screws / Triangular Thread Screws / Hexagon Head Cap Screws

export@ray-fu.com

www.ray-fu.com

瑞滬企業股份有限公司

CE, ETA, IATF16949, ISO-14001, ISO-9001, TAF, TÜV, AS 9100D

AD page: 89

SEN JING INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Colour adjustment by PANTONE or RAL Card / Without Cr6+ or Cr3+ conversion / Environmentally safe / Excellent chemical resistance / Excellent adhesion / Following ACQ requirements / Excellent alkali-acid resistant

mail@arphar.com

www.arphar.com 升景實業有限公司 ISO-9001

AD page: 8

REXLEN CORP.

Rivets / PPAP Documents / Clinch Nuts / Clinch Stud / Customized Special Screws & Bolts / Machine Screws / CNC Parts / CNC Lathe / Forged and Stamped Parts / Injection Molding Machine Screws / A193 B7 Screws / All Kinds of Screws / Custom Bolts / Auto Parts / Bolts& Studs / Castings / Custom Parts / Nuts / Rubber & Injection-Molded Plastic Components / Screws / Stampings

rexlen@rexlen.com.tw www.rexlen.com.tw

連宜股份有限公司 ISO-9001, TAF

SHANGHAI SCREWTOOL INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Customized Special Screws / Precision Electronic Screws / Plastite Screws / Taptite Screws / Thread Rolling Screws / Thread Cutting Screws / Bi-metal Self-drilling Screws / Precious Metal Screws / Miniature Precision Screws / SEMS Screws / Set Screws / Captive Screws

info@shscrewtool.com

www.fastener-world.com/en/ supplier/screwtool

CE, CE 14566, CE 14592

AD page: 23

RONG YIH JIANG

ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Nut Setters / Bits / Commutators / Adapters / Nut Drivers / Shafts, Couplings, Keys and Clutches / Screwdrivers

service@rongyih.com

www.rongyih.com

嶸鎰企業有限公司 ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 50

SHEH KAI PRECISION CO., LTD.

Bi-metal Self-drilling Screws / Bi-metal Screw / Bi-metal Concrete Screw Anchors / Screw Anchors / Self-drilling Screws / Stainless Steel Wire & Rod / Construction Fasteners / Self-Tapping Screws / Wing Screws / Roofing Screws / Concrete Screws / Multi-stage Screw & Parts / Concrete Drill Bit / Hammer Drill Bit info@shehkai.com.tw www.shehkai.com

世鎧精密股份有限公司

CE, ETA, ISO-14001, ISO-9001, ICC-ES

SHEN SHAN INTERNATIONAL

GLIDE MFG. CORP.

Handles / Knobs / Indexing Plungers / Glides / Tube Inserts / Thread Tube Inserts / Casters / Washers / Hardware

service@shen-shan.com

www.shen-shan.com

森山企業股份有限公司

ISO-9001

AD page: 100

SHI GANG ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Hand Tools / Other Hardware Equipment & Accessories & Products / Wire & Cable Clamps / Cable Ties / Cable-tie Tensioning Tools

andy3472818@hotmail.com

www.pengkang.com.tw

仕掆企業有限公司

AD page: 57

SHUN DEN IRON WORKS CO., LTD.

Bits

sijinchina@machinesijin.com

www.machinesijin.com

思進智能成形裝備股份有限公司

AD page: 43

SHINN RUNG CO., LTD.

Self-drilling Screws / Sheet Metal Screws / Collated Screws / Thread Forming Screws / Drywall Screws / Chipboard Screws / Machine Screws / Furniture Screws / Stainless Steel Screws

sr@shinnrung.com

www.shinnrung.com

信榮螺絲企業股份有限公司

ISO-9001:2015, CE 14566, CE 14592

AD page: 40

SOGA

Brass

soga36@gmail.com

www.fastener-world.com/en/supplier/ soga

shunden@seed.net.tw

www.shun-den.com.tw

順典鐵工廠股份有限公司

ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 2

SPECIAL RIVETS CORP. (SRC)

Blind Rivets / Hand Riveters / Blind Nuts / Rivet Nuts / Closed End Rivets / Hand Rivet Tools, Hand Rivet Nut/Rivet Bolt Tools, Air Hydraulic Rivet / Multigrip Rivets / Painted Rivets / High Strength Rivets / Rivet Nut Tools / Structural Rivets / Nickel & Nickel Alloy Rivets / Pneumatic/Hydraulic Riveters

srcrivet@ms12.hinet.net

www.srcrivet.com

恆昭企業股份有限公司

ISO-9001

AD page: 11

SUN CHEN FASTENERS INC.,

(Steel) Wire Nails / Barrel Nuts / Machine Screws / Clinch Stud Screws / All Kinds of Nuts / Customized Special Screws/Bolts / CNC Parts / CNC Lathe / Stamped Parts / Hardwares / Hex Keys / Carbon Steel / Stainless Steel

sunchan@ms9.hinet.net

www.fastener-world.com/en/ supplier/sun-chen

展鴻鑫股份有限公司

AD page: 19

SPRING LAKE ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Thread Forming Screws / Self-locking Nuts / Customized Special Screws / Alloy Steel Screws / Multi-strokes Special Screws/Bolts / Locking Screws / Double-head Screws/ Bolts / Automotive Screws / Weld Nuts / Customized Special Screws/Bolts / Nonstandard Hexagon Head Screws/Bolts spring.lake@msa.hinet.net daniel@springlake.com.tw www.springlake.com.tw 春澤企業股份有限公司

ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 6

SUNCO INDUSTRIES CO., LTD. JAPAN

A2 Cap Screw / Cap Screws / Socket Set Screws / Special Screws / Screws in Small Packs / Security Screws / Precious Metal Screws / Plastite Screws / Self-locking Screws / Hexagon Nuts / Hex Nuts With Conical Washers / Nylon Cap Insert Lock Nuts / Sems Screws / Screws With Washers

export@sunco.co.jp

www.sunco.co.jp

ISO-9001:2015, ISO-14001

STAND DRAGON INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Custom Pins / Caster Pins / Contact Pins / Blind Nuts / Rivet Nuts / Bushing / Automotive & Motorcycle Special Screws / Bolts / Hex Stand-off / Miniature Precision Screws / Self-tapping Bolts / Stud Bolts / Connecting Rod Bolts / Threaded Rivets

info@standdragon.com

www.standdragon.com

企龍企業有限公司

ISO-9001

SUPERIOR QUALITY FASTENER CO., LTD.

Heavy Nuts / Flange Screws / Hexagon Head Cap Screws / Weld Screws / Hexagon Nuts / Automotive Screws / Automotive Nuts / Tubes / T-head or T-slot Bolts / Construction Bolts / U Bolts / Weld Nuts

sqf@sqf.com.tw

www.sqf.com.tw

鑫程椿股份有限公司

CE, IATF16949, ISO-9001, ISO-14001, CE EN14592, CE EN14566

AD page: 32

TANGIBLE IND. CO., LTD.

Staple Guns / Stapler

richard@tangible.com.tw

www.tangible.com.tw

天昌工業股份有限公司

UNIPACK EQUIPMENT CO., LTD.

Auto electromagnetic paralleling packaging system for box, carton, KLT, plastic bag /Auto tipping & filling machine / Computer Control Printing/Labeling Machine / Assembly machine of screws, nuts, and washers / Stud welding machine / Auto fix-weight filling machine for heat treatment/plating / Conveyor system / RGV system / Auto carton/box forming machine / Auto carton/box folding and sealing machine

uni.pack@msa.hinet.net

www.unipacks.com.tw 全立發國際開發有限公司

WEI LIANG CORPORATION

Pumps / Filters for Hydraulic Systems / Lubricators / Pipe Fittings for Hydraulic Systems / Hydraulic Pumps / Hydraulic Piping Systems (Tube and Hose Assembly) / Hydraulic Motors / Centralized Lubrication Systems

peja741017@gmail.com

www.zenloon.com.tw 維良企業股份有限公司 CE

AD page: 41

WEIMENG METAL PRODUCTS CO., LTD.

Forged and

info-tw1@weimong.net

info-abc@weimong.net

www.weimong.net

偉盟五金制品有限公司 ISO-9001:2015, IATF16949

AD page: 49

WAY WIN TOOLS TRADE COMPANY

Socket Wrench Sets & Sockets / Ratchet Box

Wrenches / Torque Wrenches / Auto Repair

Tools / Auto Repair Accessories / Blind Rivet

Studs / Woodworking Tools in General / Air

Tools General / Electronic Repair Kits / Fastener & Fastener Tools / Non Slip Socket / Screws / Power Tools Accessories / Wrenches / Vehicle

Repair Tools / Pliers / Vise / Cutters

Hex-Key Wrench / Clamps

waywintoolsk@gmail.com

www.automobile-tools.com

唯勝貿易有限公司

WHALE SECURITY CORP.

HIPPO SECURITY CORP.

sales@whalelock.com

www.whalelock.com

震一實業有限公司

AD page: 72

WOODFOX TOOLS CO., LTD.

Woodworking Tools / Pocket Hole Jig / Pocket Hole Screws / Drill Drive Bit / Concealed Hinge Jig / Deck Tool / Deck Jig / Deck Screws / Panel Carrier / Drill Guide / Drill Jig

woodfoxtool@gmail.com

www.woodfox-tools.com

德冠工業有限公司

ISO 9001:2015, SMETA

YAYI INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

Stamped Parts / Furniture Fittings / Hand Tools / Wrenches / Spanners In General / Wrench Sets / Custom Development of Special Parts / Customized Metal Development Products / Automobile, Motorcycle Parts And Accessories / Auto Industry / Medical Industry / Electronic Industry / Washers of Various Materials / CNC Lathe Processes / Metal Tube Products winner59086691@gmail.com www.fastener-world.com/en/ supplier/yayi

AD page: 84

YAOWEI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.

CNC Machining Parts / CNC Parts / CNC Lathe / Automotive Parts / Special Parts

zuna@yaowei-tw.com

www.yaowei-tw.com

曜維精密工業有限公司

AD page: 104

YENCHANG HARDWARE

HOOK & SPRING FACTORY

Stamping Parts, Wire Forming, Spring Clips, CNC Milling/Turning Parts, and wire EDM Parts for Customized Products

yenchang201@gmail.com

www.yenchang.com.tw

延昌五金鉤環彈簧工廠 ISO-9001, TÜV

AD page: 129

YAW MIN

ENTERPRISE CORP.

Barrel Nuts / Wing Nuts / Furniture Fittings / Flange Nuts / Die Cast Nuts / Tee or T

Nuts / Customized Special Screws/Bolts / Automotive Parts / CNC Parts / CNC Lathe / Machine Parts / Insert Nuts Type A. B. C.

D. E. I / Zinc Die Casting Parts / K.D. Fitting / Allen Key / Hex Key / JCN Nut / Furniture Screw / Aluminum Die Cast Parts yawmin.contact@gmail.com

www.yawmin.com

耀銘實業有限公司

ISO-9001:2015

AD page: 14

YI CHUN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Cap Screws / Socket Set Screws / Cage Nuts / Clip Nuts / Stamped Parts / Blind Nuts / Rivet Nuts / Automotive Parts / Weld Nuts / Welding T-nuts / U Nuts / A2 Cap Screw / Special Screws

fooh.ming@msa.hinet.net

www.yc-fen.com.tw

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Taiwan's Fastening Tools Development Trends and Competitiveness

● Foreword

台灣扣件緊固工具產品發展趨勢與競爭力

Taiwan is the world's 2nd largest exporter of fastening tools which are defined as handheld tools for fastening/loosening fasteners (screws, nuts, studs, bolts, nuts, etc.). Fastening tools and fasteners are different products, but there is a high degree of relevance, i.e., these two products need to be operated in conjunction with the performance and proper application of the industry. The value of Taiwan fastening tools export even surpassed those of Japan, Germany, the U.S. and other advanced countries, but what is worth exploring behind the bright figures is that the export value only revealed the short-term export scale, which is vulnerable to industry trends and competition, but the long-term competitiveness of products requires solid industrial manufacturing capacity and a sound industrial supply chain.

Overall, the new product development trends of fastening tools are: ergonomics, ease of operation, application of new materials, lightweight design, digital technology, etc. This article analyzes the product development trends and competitiveness of Taiwan's fastening tools, and explores the scope of products (including wrenches & spanners, socket wrenches, screwdrivers, etc.) as well as the industry trends, materials, and net-zero carbon reduction.

● Review and Analysis of the Economic and Trade Development Trends of Global

Fastening Tools

a. Import:

Table 1 shows the global major importers of fastening tools and the import trend from 2018 to 2022. In 2022, the global import value of fastening tools was about US$8,612 million (about NT$256,465 million) and the total import value of the top 10 importing countries was US$4,477 million, accounting for 52% of the global total import, and the compound growth rate of the imports in the past five years was 3.3%, slightly higher than the global compound growth rate of 3.1%; among them, the respective import values and shares of the top 5 importing countries in order were: the U.S. (US$1.569 billion/18.2%), Germany (US$766 million/8.9%), Canada (US$321 million/3.7%), France (US$320 million/3.7%), and the UK (US$301 million/3.5%). Although imports may not be always equivalent to industrial demand and the domestic production and stock still have to be considered, the trend of imports also reflects the demand for products in various countries. The U.S. is still the world's leading importer of fastening tools and in 2022 it further expanded its import share from the world. The U.S. with the highest import value (US$ 1.569 billion) and a stable compound growth rate (6.6%) plays a role in driving the demand for fastening tools in the global market.

Source: ITC/compiled by MIRDC

Note: Based on the 2022 average exchange rate (NT$29.78 per US$1) of the Central Bank of Taiwan

b. Export:

Table 2 shows the global major fastening tools exporting countries and the export trend from 2018 to 2022. In 2022, the global fastening tools export amounted to about US$8.021 billion (NT$238.865 billion) and the total export value of the top 10 exporting countries was US$6.116 billion, with the export compound growth rate averaged at 4.1%, which was slightly higher than the global compound growth rate of 3.5%, and the total export value already accounted for 76.3% of the global total, a highly concentrated export structure. Among them, the respective export values and shares of the top 5 exporting countries in order were: China (US$2,312 million/28.8%), Taiwan (US$1,074 million/13.4%), Germany (US$1,057 million/13.2%), the U.S. (US$516 million/6.4%), and Italy (US$241 million/3.0%). Compared to 2021, Taiwan even surpassed Germany to become the world's second largest fastening tools exporting country in 2022, with a compound growth rate of up to 7.8% in recent five years, a remarkable performance.

Table 1. Global Major Fastening Tools Importing Countries and the Import Trend in 2018-2022 (Unit: US$0.1 bn;％)

China continues to be the world's leading fastening tool exporter. Even under the multiple impacts of the global political & economic situations, it still ranked first with the highest export value (US$2.312 billion) and a stable high compound growth rate (8.7%), which demonstrates that with the production advantage of the economy of scale China’s leading position has been not that easy to be challenged by various global variables.

● The Development Trends of Fastening Tools

a. Wrenches & Spanners (HS codes 820411 and 820412)

a-1. The Development of Digital Adjustable Wrenches and Spanners: Digital wrenches refer to traditional wrenches embedded with chips. When the nut is turned, it’ll display the torque value on the screen, avoiding the technician to turn too loose or too tight, which is helpful for specific operating conditions and industries (such as automotive, 3C manufacturing, etc.) to achieve higher precision assembly and stability; although Europe, the U.S. and Japan have developed digital fixed wrenches, only Taiwanese manufacturers successfully developed the digital adjustable wrenches for all sizes of nuts.

The R&D of digital adjustable wrenches in the ICT field focuses on the design of sensor circuits, the design of microelectromechanical sensor circuits to reduce the error rate, the program design of torque precision controllers, AntiEMI circuit design considering electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and electromagnetic interference (EMI), the design of TFT display circuits, the design of wireless and baseband electronic circuits, and bluetooth wireless communication technology, etc., and is coupled with the introduction of ergonomics and aesthetics of engineering design, compliance with the ISO-6789 standard, and the service life of more than 10,000 cycles. It is sufficient to detect small changes in torque (up to 0.1N-m) and simultaneously integrates FM wireless transmission technology to realize the product networking function; this type of digital torque wrenches can increase the unit price of traditional torque wrenches from NT$2,000 to NT$20,000, and the unit price of cloud database digital torque wrenches with networking function can be even increased to NT$33,000.

Source: ITC/compiled by MIRDC

a-2. The Development of Fully Insulated Adjustable Wrenches: With the green energy trend leading to the development of EV and to consider the voltage of EV being about 650V, higher than the voltage of traditional vehicles (DC 12-24 volts), the demand for fully-insulated fastening tools is becoming increasingly important, so the entry barrier of fully-insulated hand tools in the processing and application of materials will be also higher, and they need to comply with a more complete set of certification standards, including obtaining the European standards such as DIN EN 60900 (insulation hand tools common test and product size requirements), German DVE electrical safety certification, DIN, ISO, JIS, ANSI, ASME & BSI, and other national standards bodies certifications. The use of chrome vanadium steel can withstand the voltage of about 1000V; however, the price of an adjustable wrench is already 2-5 times higher than a general hand tool and the price of an fully-insulated adjustable wrench is even 10% higher than a general adjustable wrench. Accordingly, fully-insulated adjustable wrenches are high value-added products. A few manufacturers in Taiwan are key suppliers in the insulated fastening tools market in Asia. Even though adjustable wrenches are a more advanced category in manufacturing of non-powered hand tools, leading Taiwanese manufacturers of fully-insulated wrenches can still make profits as high as 40% with their mature technology

b. Socket Wrenches (HS code 820420)

b-1. Fixed Torque Socket Wrenches: Currently, Taiwanese fixed torque socket wrench manufacturers have obtained patents for new types and torque design in many countries, which can be matched with various handles to increase their peripheral functions suitable for precision assembly lines; the current positioning of these products is mainly for fastening. Torque control is used to standardize tool operation during the fastening process, providing better fastening accuracy and service life. After the rotation to reach the required torque, there will also be an alert sound to inform the user that the torque has reached the preset standard value or tightening limit, avoiding the fastener damage caused by over-torque. In addition, color management is also used to avoid incorrect torque application and the precision tolerance is within ±10%; in addition, the fixed socket wrenches also have a non-return function, which means that they can be simultaneously used to loosen fasteners, standardizing the fastening process and enhancing work efficiency.

b-2. Prestressed Socket Wrenches: A patented ring is used to apply stress around the hexagonal hole to counteract tensile stress, achieving higher torque strength and extending the service life by 3 times. The product is also available in a variety of colors to differentiate between sizes.

Table 2. Global Major Fastening Tools Exporting Countries and the Export Trend in 2018-2022

c. Screwdrivers (HS code 820540)

c-1. Labor-saving Ratchet Screwdrivers:

New screwdrivers are developed and improved in the direction of lightweight and labor-saving. The laborsaving ratchet screwdriver on the market features a hexagonal palm handle with a special triple molded design. The labor-saving ratchet screwdriver has been verified by the Human Factors Engineering Bionic Laboratory to increase the rotational torque, allowing the user to utilize 2-3 times the rotational torque of a conventional screwdriver when gripping and operating it, and at the same time, through the internal plastic structure to do universal swing to increase the operating space and angle to absorb the force of movement and reduce the burden of the wrist joints. In addition to the above features, the use of labor-saving ratchet screwdrivers also reduces the risk of deviation and skewing of screw drilling operations, increasing the speed and reliability of the work. The products are designed and manufactured by Taiwanese companies, and are sold to the U.S., Canada, Russia, and Scandinavia, and have been patented in Taiwan, the U.S., and China.

c-2. Digital Power Screwdrivers:

They are mainly used in mobile phones, tablets, industrial PCs with bluetooth connection to grasp torque data in real time. Torque sensors provide direct and realtime torque information, and can customize torque, speed, and angle to achieve the desired fastening result. Torque data and fastening status are displayed as "OK" or "NG" for real-time feedback. It is also possible to set the screw torque and the angle after fastening for achieving more precise fastening; In addition, the digital power screwdriver recently developed by a Taiwanese manufacturer has completed the compliance with the ISO-6789 standard, as well as the durability level of the service life of 10,000 cycles or more.

● Other Factors Affecting the Competitiveness of Fastening Tools

a. Application of Premium Materials

a-1. Application of SVCM+ Materials in Tooling Products

Chrome Vanadium Steel (CR-V) is a common alloy steel highly resistant to wear and maintains a stable high hardness after heat treatment, as chromium increases hardness and vanadium increases toughness. The combination of these two materials, combined with proper heat treatment, provides a significant increase in durability and tolerance accuracy. SVCM is a topgrade alloy tool steel containing Si, V, Cr and Mo, and the higher-grade SVCM+ material is even superior to CR-V, which is sufficiently hard but not tough enough, and may result in wrench fracture if used with too much force at a certain point of application. SCVM+ has the advantage of being more torsionally resistant than CR-V, but there is a 40% difference between the prices of these two materials.

a-2. Application of High Entropy Alloys in Fastening Tools

With the evolution of metal materials, new materials such as high-entropy alloys have emerged. The so-called high-entropy alloys are alloys with more than five major elements, and the atomic percentage of each major element should be between 5% and 35%, while each minor element is less than 5%. Different metals formulated into comprehensive alloys can feature higher strength, hardness, ductility, high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance and other functions than traditional alloys, and because of the unlimited number of formulas, more elements can be added to enhance the alloy characteristics, so the high-performance alloys still offer diversified R&D and application opportunities in the future fastening tools market. To this end, a team of academics has developed a beryllium-free, non-toxic high-entropy alloy nonsparking tools, specifically for use in explosion and combustion hazardous areas, such as mine pits, oil tanks, refineries, gas plants, powder factories, explosives factories, etc., to replace the use of beryllium-containing copper alloys that have been in use for 100 years. In addition, the high entropy alloy featuring a permanent sterilization effect can be also used to make sterilized knives, cutting boards, door knobs, or railings & handrails in public areas, to replace the existing materials such as stainless steel, the traditional easy-to-rust low-strength copper alloys, plastics and wood.

b. Impact of Intelligent and Decarbonized Processes on Product Competitiveness

b-1. Intelligent Transformation: Currently, the intelligent production lines of Taiwanese fastening tool manufacturers can be all automated from grinding & polishing, mechanical processing, laser engraving, packaging and stacking to lathe processing. With the accumulated efforts in recent years, Taiwan fastener industry has advanced from single-station intelligent automated production lines to multi-station cascade automation and intelligent information integration. The new line allows for faster tool changes, reducing the time for a specific process from the previous 30 minutes to 15 seconds, and reduces the number of people required on a production line from four to one, which not only improve efficiency, but also solve the problem of labor shortages in recent years. Through intelligent transformation, labor requirements have been significantly reduced by 60%~80%, and deliveries can be made one week ahead of schedule, with an increase in production capacity of nearly 30%. The upfront investment in automation is high, but the long-term benefits to manufacturers are substantial.

b-2. Low Carbon Green Process: The EU's CBAM has been implemented on a trial basis since October 2023 and has become an important rule in int’l trade. It is roughly estimated that there are about 3,500 steel, fastener, and aluminum product manufacturers in Taiwan who will be affected by the mechanism; although fastening tools are not yet included in the scope of CBAM, it is likely to be expanded in the future, and the ways to do so will include an increase in the number of economies (or countries) and the increase in the scope of products.

(1) Increase in the number of economies (or countries): Currently, there is only the EU, but considering the response of various countries, it is very likely that the U.S., Japan, China and other major manufacturing countries may create their own CBAM in the future, forming a new global trade barrier.

(2) Increase in the scope of products: In the future, CBAM may be extended to 52 types of products regulated by the EU ETS, and among these 52 types, those related to fastening tools are "iron castings", which will also affect Taiwan's fastening tools export. Taiwanese manufacturers may be impacted in the EU or the world if they do not react to this problem ASAP. Therefore, Taiwanese fastening tool manufacturers not only need to continuously strengthen product design, but also introduce low-carbon green processes or intelligent production lines in the long run, which is the key to maintaining the market and expanding the competitiveness of their products.

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