HS Code:
Bathing caps, classified under HS Code 6506.91, are protective headgear typically made of silicone, latex, or other waterproof materials, used primarily for swimming to protect hair from water and chlorine. This category includes swim caps used by professional athletes, recreational swimmers, and in various water sports. The global trade of bathing caps is a niche but significant segment of the broader sporting goods and apparel market, driven by demand in swimming-intensive regions and competitive sports sectors.
Total Trade Volume
USD 45 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market)
Rising demand for eco-friendly materials
Increased production of bathing caps made from recyclable or biodegradable materials, influencing sourcing and manufacturing costs.
2021-2022
Growth in competitive swimming
Higher demand for high-performance bathing caps with hydrodynamic designs, boosting trade in premium segments.
2020-2022
E-commerce expansion
Direct-to-consumer sales channels have increased export opportunities for smaller manufacturers, reshaping traditional trade routes.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on silicone content in bathing caps to ensure consumer safety and environmental compliance.
March 2023
Manufacturers exporting to the EU must adapt to new material standards, potentially increasing production costs but ensuring market access.
A revised trade agreement reduced tariffs on sporting goods, including bathing caps, between the US and China, facilitating smoother trade flows.
January 2023
Lower tariffs have boosted Chinese exports to the US, potentially increasing market competition and reducing prices for consumers.
Major brands unveiled new bathing cap designs aimed at reducing drag for competitive swimmers, gaining traction in international markets.
July 2022
Increased demand for premium products, benefiting manufacturers with advanced R&D capabilities and impacting trade volumes in high-end segments.