HS Code:
This category refers to synthetic filament tow made of acrylonitrile units, containing 92% or more by weight of acrylonitrile, with filaments numbering fewer than 70,000 (+/- 2,000) and a filament diameter of 1.59 decitex (+/- 0.027) or less. It also includes separable tow constructions that can be divided into tows of 70,000 filaments (+/- 2,000) or fewer with the same filament diameter constraints. These products are typically used in the production of high-performance fibers such as carbon fiber precursors for aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications due to their strength and lightweight properties. The HS Code for this category is likely under 5501.30, which covers synthetic filament tow of acrylic or modacrylic materials, though specific subheadings may apply based on regional classifications.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA or EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand for carbon fiber precursors
Increased trade volume due to rising applications in aerospace and automotive sectors for lightweight, high-strength materials.
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable production
Manufacturers are investing in eco-friendly production methods, influencing trade patterns as countries with stricter environmental regulations gain competitive advantage.
2022-2023
Technological advancements in filament production
Innovations in reducing filament diameter and improving tensile strength are driving export growth from technologically advanced countries like Japan and Germany.
2020-2023
The European Union imposed anti-dumping duties ranging from 5-8% on acrylic filament tow imports from certain Asian countries to protect domestic producers.
March 2023
Shift in trade flows, with EU importers sourcing more from Japan and the US, potentially increasing costs for downstream industries.
Major Japanese manufacturers announced investments in expanding production facilities for high-quality acrylic tow to meet global demand for carbon fiber.
July 2022
Strengthens Japan's position as the leading exporter, potentially lowering prices due to increased supply.
Recent negotiations under Phase One of the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on synthetic filament tow, facilitating smoother trade between the two nations.
January 2023
Increased imports of Chinese acrylic tow to the US, benefiting US manufacturers with lower input costs.