HS Code:
Artificial staple fibers of viscose rayon, not carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, measuring 0.5 or more but not over 1.0 decitex and having a fiber length of 4 mm to 20 mm (HS Code 5504.10.00), are a specific category of man-made fibers used primarily in the textile industry. Viscose rayon, derived from cellulose, is valued for its softness, absorbency, and versatility, making it a popular choice for apparel, home textiles, and non-woven products. This subheading focuses on fine fibers (microfibers) with short lengths, often used in specialized applications like blending with other fibers for enhanced texture or in industrial applications.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-India FTA or within ASEAN)
Rising demand for sustainable textiles
Increased production of eco-friendly viscose rayon due to consumer preference for biodegradable materials, boosting trade volumes by 10% annually since 2020.
2020-2022
Shift towards microfiber applications
Growing use of fine decitex fibers in high-performance textiles and non-wovens, driving demand in niche markets like medical textiles and filtration.
2021-2023
Supply chain disruptions
Post-COVID-19 logistics challenges and raw material shortages have led to a 5-7% increase in production costs, affecting export competitiveness.
2021-2022
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring viscose rayon producers to comply with stricter environmental standards, including reduced water usage and chemical discharge limits.
June 2023
This may increase production costs for exporters to the EU but also opens opportunities for certified sustainable producers, especially from India and Indonesia.
China announced investments in new viscose rayon facilities to cater to growing domestic and international demand, focusing on finer fibers like those in HS 5504.10.00.
March 2023
This is expected to reinforce Chinaโs dominance in the market, potentially leading to oversupply and price competition in the short term.
The United States initiated an anti-dumping investigation into viscose rayon imports from China and India, citing unfair pricing practices.
September 2022
Possible imposition of additional duties could shift trade patterns, benefiting alternative suppliers like Indonesia and Thailand.