HS Code:
The category 'Containing 85 percent or more by weight of polyester staple fibers' typically falls under HS Code 5512.11 or related subcategories, depending on whether the fabric is woven, knitted, or otherwise processed. This category includes fabrics predominantly made of polyester staple fibers, which are widely used in the textile industry for manufacturing apparel, home furnishings, and industrial materials due to their durability, wrinkle resistance, and cost-effectiveness. These fabrics are often blended minimally with other fibers but maintain a composition of at least 85% polyester by weight. Global trade in this category is significant, driven by demand in both developed and developing markets for affordable and versatile textile materials.
Total Trade Volume
USD 3.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local textile industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA or EU trade pacts)
Shift toward sustainable polyester production
Increasing demand for recycled polyester staple fibers due to environmental concerns is pushing manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly practices, influencing trade patterns with higher costs but better market access in regions like the EU.
2021-2023
Rising demand in fast fashion
Growth in fast fashion industries, especially in Asia and North America, is driving higher imports of polyester fabrics due to their affordability and versatility, though it also raises concerns about overproduction and waste.
2020-2022
Supply chain diversification
Post-COVID-19, countries are diversifying supply chains away from heavy reliance on China, leading to increased production and exports from countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh.
2021-2023
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring polyester fabric imports to meet specific environmental and recycling standards, affecting exporters who must now adapt to these requirements.
March 2023
Potential increase in production costs for non-compliant exporters, but also an opportunity for those already using sustainable practices to gain market share.
Recent negotiations have led to a temporary reduction in tariffs on polyester fabrics exported from China to the US, as part of broader trade talks.
September 2023
Expected to boost Chinese exports to the US in the short term, though long-term stability remains uncertain.
Vietnam has ramped up production of polyester staple fiber fabrics, benefiting from trade agreements like the CPTPP and RCEP, positioning itself as a competitive alternative to China.
June 2023
Increased market share for Vietnam in global trade, potentially shifting supply chain dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region.