HS Code:
The 'Containing 36 percent or more by weight of flax fibers (341)' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code pertains to woven fabrics of flax, specifically those with a high flax content (36% or more by weight). Flax fibers are derived from the flax plant and are used to produce linen, a fabric known for its strength, durability, and breathability. This category includes various types of flax-based textiles used in clothing, home furnishings, and industrial applications. The global trade of this category is influenced by factors such as agricultural production of flax, textile manufacturing capabilities, and demand for sustainable and natural fiber products.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$180 million USD
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$120 million USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$90 million USD
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local textile industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable textiles
Increased interest in flax-based products due to their eco-friendly nature and biodegradability, driving market growth in Europe and North America.
2021-2022
Technological advancements in textile processing
Improved methods for processing flax fibers have reduced production costs, making flax textiles more competitive against synthetic alternatives.
2020-2022
Shift in consumer preferences toward natural fibers
Growing awareness of environmental issues has led to a preference for linen over cotton or synthetics, boosting trade volumes in key markets.
2019-2022
The European Union's Green Deal has introduced stricter regulations on textile sustainability, favoring flax-based products due to their lower environmental footprint compared to other fibers.
January 2023
Positive for European flax producers and exporters, potentially increasing market share in the EU.
A recent phase of the US-China trade agreement has reduced tariffs on certain textile categories, including flax fabrics, facilitating increased exports from China to the US.
March 2022
Likely to boost China's trade volume in this category, potentially affecting competitors like Italy and France.
Adverse weather conditions and geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe, a key flax-producing region, have led to supply chain disruptions and reduced output.
July 2022
Short-term price increases and potential trade shifts toward Asian producers like India and China.