HS Code:
Cutlery of plastics, each piece individually wrapped in polypropylene film and joined together by skewers for ease of loading into a fully enclosed dispensing system, falls under HS subheading 3924.10.40. This category includes disposable plastic utensils such as forks, spoons, and knives, primarily used in food service industries, catering, and takeaway sectors. These products are designed for hygiene and convenience, with the polypropylene wrapping ensuring individual sterility and the skewer system facilitating efficient dispensing in high-traffic environments like fast-food restaurants and hospitals.
Total Trade Volume
USD 320 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.3%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA and EU Single Market)
Shift towards sustainable alternatives
Growing demand for biodegradable or compostable cutlery is reducing the market share of traditional plastic cutlery, pressuring manufacturers to innovate.
2021-2023
Increase in food delivery services
The rise of online food delivery platforms has boosted demand for individually wrapped cutlery for hygiene and convenience in takeaway orders.
2020-2022
Automation in packaging and dispensing systems
Adoption of advanced dispensing systems in food service industries has increased the demand for skewered, pre-wrapped cutlery formats.
2019-2023
The European Union has expanded its ban on single-use plastics, including certain types of plastic cutlery, with phased implementation across member states. Exemptions apply to hygienic dispensing systems in medical and food service sectors.
July 2023
Reduced market access for traditional plastic cutlery in the EU, pushing exporters to focus on alternative materials or markets.
The United States imposed additional tariffs on specific plastic goods from China, including cutlery under HS 3924.10.40, as part of ongoing trade tensions.
March 2023
Increased costs for US importers, potentially shifting sourcing to other countries like Vietnam or domestic producers.
Several major manufacturers introduced new fully enclosed dispensing systems compatible with skewered plastic cutlery, emphasizing touchless technology to meet post-COVID hygiene standards.
January 2022
Increased adoption of such systems in public spaces, driving demand for compatible wrapped cutlery formats.