HS Code:
The 'Color' category, often associated with dyes, pigments, paints, and related coloring materials (typically under HS Codes 32 for tanning or dyeing extracts, pigments, and paints), encompasses a wide range of products used in industries such as textiles, automotive, construction, and arts. These products include natural and synthetic dyes, inorganic and organic pigments, and prepared paints and varnishes. The global trade of color products is influenced by industrial demand, environmental regulations, and innovation in sustainable and eco-friendly coloring solutions.
Total Trade Volume
USD 40.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 8.2 billion
20.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 5.1 billion
12.6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 4.8 billion
11.9% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 3.9 billion
9.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.7 billion
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.8%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Shift towards eco-friendly and bio-based dyes
Increased demand for sustainable products is driving innovation and market growth in natural dyes, impacting synthetic dye producers negatively.
2021-2023
Rising demand in textile and automotive sectors
Growing industrialization in Asia-Pacific and recovery in automotive production post-COVID have boosted demand for pigments and paints.
2022
Digital printing technology advancements
Adoption of digital printing in textiles has increased the need for specialized colorants, creating niche markets for high-performance pigments.
2020-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations under the Green Deal, imposing limits on hazardous substances in dyes and pigments, affecting exporters from non-compliant regions.
March 2023
Non-EU exporters face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing market share in Europe while benefiting local producers.
A new phase of trade negotiations reduced tariffs on certain pigment categories between the US and China, facilitating smoother trade flows.
January 2023
Lower tariffs are expected to increase Chinese pigment exports to the US, benefiting US industries reliant on affordable raw materials.
India extended its export incentive scheme for dyes and pigments under the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP), boosting competitiveness.
September 2022
Indian exporters gained a competitive edge in global markets, particularly in Asia and Africa, increasing trade volume.