HS Code:
Cellulose wadding (HS Code: 4818.90) includes products such as absorbent materials made from cellulose fibers, often used in sanitary products like diapers, feminine hygiene products, and medical applications. This category also covers related articles of paper pulp, paper, or cellulose wadding for household, sanitary, or hospital use. It is a critical component in personal care and healthcare industries, with demand driven by population growth, hygiene awareness, and aging demographics.
Total Trade Volume
USD 3.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 750 million
23.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 520 million
16.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 480 million
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 310 million
9.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 250 million
7.8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for eco-friendly and biodegradable products
Manufacturers are shifting towards sustainable raw materials and production methods to meet consumer and regulatory demands, increasing costs but also market share in green-conscious regions.
2021-2023
Growth in aging population and healthcare needs
Increased demand for adult incontinence products and medical-grade cellulose wadding in developed markets like Europe and North America.
2020-2022
Technological advancements in absorbent materials
Innovations in super-absorbent polymers integrated with cellulose wadding are enhancing product efficiency, driving competition among key exporters.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced new regulations in 2023 requiring cellulose wadding products to meet higher recyclability and biodegradability standards as part of its Circular Economy Action Plan.
March 2023
Exporters to the EU must adapt production processes, potentially increasing costs but also opening opportunities for sustainable product differentiation.
A revised trade agreement in late 2022 reduced tariffs on cellulose wadding imports from China to the US, boosting trade volumes between the two countries.
November 2022
Chinese exporters gained a competitive edge in the US market, potentially affecting domestic producers and other exporting countries.
Ongoing disruptions due to geopolitical tensions and post-COVID recovery have led to delays and increased shipping costs for cellulose wadding raw materials and finished products.
Mid-2022 to Early 2023
Manufacturers are exploring regional supply chains and nearshoring to mitigate risks, influencing trade patterns.