HS Code:
The category 'Containing 50 percent or more by weight of cotton, man-made fibers or other textile fibers, or any combination thereof' includes a variety of textile products such as fabrics, yarns, and made-up articles under the Harmonized System (HS) Code framework, often falling under chapters 50 to 63 (specific subheadings vary). This category primarily encompasses woven fabrics, knitted or crocheted fabrics, and apparel or household textile items made predominantly from cotton, synthetic, or blended fibers. These products are widely used in the apparel, home furnishing, and industrial sectors. Global trade in this category is driven by demand for affordable clothing, sustainable materials, and evolving fashion trends, with significant production in developing countries due to lower labor costs.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $250 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Statistics
$85 billion USD
34% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 billion USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 billion USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$20 billion USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 billion USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
Up to 25% (imposed by certain countries on specific subcategories under protective trade policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like the EU-Vietnam FTA or USMCA)
Shift towards sustainable and organic cotton
Increased demand for eco-friendly textiles has boosted exports from countries with certified organic production, such as India and Turkey, while pressuring non-compliant producers to adapt.
2021-2023
Rise of fast fashion and e-commerce
Rapid production cycles and online retail have driven trade volumes for low-cost producers like Bangladesh and Vietnam, though this also raises concerns over labor conditions and environmental impact.
2019-2023
Regionalization of supply chains
Post-COVID-19, there is a noticeable shift towards nearshoring, benefiting countries like Mexico (for the US market) and Turkey (for the EU market), reducing reliance on distant suppliers like China.
2020-2023
Continued imposition of Section 301 tariffs by the United States on Chinese textile products has led to higher costs for importers and a partial shift of sourcing to other Asian countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh.
Ongoing since 2018, reviewed in 2023
Reduction in Chinese market share in the US, benefiting competing exporters but increasing costs for consumers.
The European Union introduced stricter sustainability requirements under its Green Deal, mandating eco-design and recycling standards for textiles entering the EU market.
Implemented in 2022, phased rollout through 2025
Increased compliance costs for exporters, particularly smaller producers, but also opportunities for sustainable textile leaders like India.
Bangladesh is set to lose its Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2026, which may end duty-free access to markets like the EU under the Everything But Arms (EBA) scheme.
Anticipated for 2026
Potential loss of competitive edge in pricing, pushing Bangladesh to negotiate new trade agreements or focus on value-added products.