HS Code:
The 3-thread or 4-thread twill, including cross twill, falls under HS Code 5209.42. This category includes woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, weighing more than 200 g/m², and characterized by a twill weave pattern (including cross twill) with 3 or 4 threads. These fabrics are commonly used in the production of denim, workwear, and other durable textiles due to their strength and distinctive diagonal rib pattern. They are a staple in the global textile industry, particularly for jeans and casual clothing manufacturing.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain EU countries on non-preferential imports)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-GSP for developing countries)
Rising demand for sustainable denim
Increased focus on organic cotton and eco-friendly dyeing processes has driven market growth for twill fabrics with sustainable certifications, influencing sourcing patterns.
2021-2022
Shift to fast fashion supply chains
Growing fast fashion has led to higher demand for cost-effective twill fabrics, with countries like Bangladesh and India gaining market share due to lower production costs.
2020-2022
Technological advancements in weaving
Innovations in weaving technology have improved the quality and variety of twill patterns, boosting export competitiveness for technologically advanced producers like China.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter sustainability and traceability requirements for imported cotton fabrics, including 3-thread and 4-thread twill, to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
March 2023
Exporters from developing countries may face higher compliance costs, potentially affecting trade volumes to the EU.
A revised trade agreement between the US and China reduced tariffs on certain textile categories, including HS 5209.42, as part of broader trade negotiations.
January 2023
This has led to an increase in Chinese twill fabric exports to the US, strengthening China's market dominance.
Bangladesh was granted GSP+ status by the EU, allowing duty-free access for textile products, including twill fabrics, under strict labor and environmental compliance.
October 2022
This has boosted Bangladesh's export volumes to Europe, making it a key competitor in the twill fabric market.