HS Code:
The category of apparel designed for use in hospitals, clinics, laboratories, or contaminated areas (often classified under HS Code 6210.10 for garments made of nonwoven fabrics or HS Code 6211.32/6211.33 for other protective clothing) includes specialized clothing such as surgical gowns, lab coats, isolation gowns, and other protective gear. These products are critical for maintaining hygiene, preventing contamination, and ensuring safety in medical and laboratory environments. They are typically made from materials that provide barriers against fluids, microorganisms, and other hazardous substances.
Total Trade Volume
USD 12.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & World Trade Organization (WTO)
USD 4.8 billion
38.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.9 billion
15.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.2 billion
9.6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 0.9 billion
7.2% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 0.7 billion
5.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
32% (in certain developing markets with protective policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA or in WTO member countries with specific exemptions)
Surge in Demand Due to Pandemics
The COVID-19 pandemic led to an unprecedented spike in demand for medical protective apparel, with trade volumes increasing by over 50% from 2019 to 2022, particularly for disposable gowns and suits.
2020-2022
Shift to Sustainable Materials
Growing emphasis on eco-friendly and reusable protective apparel is driving innovation in biodegradable nonwovens and recyclable fabrics, influencing trade patterns as manufacturers adapt.
2021-2023
Regionalization of Supply Chains
Post-pandemic supply chain disruptions have encouraged countries to source protective apparel closer to home, boosting regional exporters like Vietnam and Mexico over traditional leaders like China.
2022-2023
The European Union implemented stricter regulations under the Medical Device Regulation (EU) 2017/745, requiring all protective medical apparel to meet enhanced safety and performance standards.
May 2021 (full enforcement)
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant manufacturers while favoring those with certified production processes.
Under the Phase 1 trade deal, tariffs on certain medical apparel from China were reduced, facilitating a smoother flow of goods amidst high demand during health crises.
January 2020 (updated in 2022)
Boosted Chinese exports to the US, maintaining China’s dominance in the market despite regionalization trends.
India launched initiatives under the 'Make in India' campaign to boost domestic production of medical apparel, supported by subsidies and reduced import duties on raw materials.
March 2022
Increased export potential from India, with trade volumes expected to rise by 10-15% annually over the next five years.