HS Code:
Chalk, classified under HS Code 2509, refers to a soft, white, porous sedimentary rock, a form of limestone composed of the mineral calcite. It is primarily used in educational settings (e.g., writing on blackboards), industrial applications (e.g., construction and agriculture), and artistic purposes. Global trade in chalk involves both natural chalk and manufactured chalk products, with demand driven by educational institutions, construction industries, and manufacturing sectors. The trade also includes related products like chalk powder used in various industrial processes.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$40 million USD
26.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
13.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$10 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Shift to eco-friendly and dustless chalk
Increased demand for manufactured chalk products that reduce health risks in educational environments, driving innovation and higher trade volumes in this segment.
2021-2023
Digitalization in education
Reduced demand for traditional chalk in developed countries due to the adoption of digital whiteboards and smartboards, particularly impacting exporters reliant on educational markets.
2019-2022
Growth in construction and agriculture
Rising use of chalk powder in construction (e.g., marking tools) and agriculture (e.g., soil amendment) has bolstered trade in regions with expanding infrastructure projects.
2020-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on the mining and processing of natural chalk to reduce environmental impact, affecting exporters to the region.
June 2023
Increased production costs for exporters like France and the UK, potentially raising prices and shifting trade to manufactured chalk alternatives.
China has invested in new facilities for producing high-quality dustless chalk, targeting educational markets in Asia and Africa.
March 2023
Strengthened China's position as a leading exporter, likely increasing its market share in the coming years.
The United States initiated a review of tariffs on chalk imports from certain countries as part of broader trade policy adjustments.
September 2022
Potential reduction in tariffs could boost imports, benefiting exporters like France and China while challenging domestic producers.