HS Code:
Drawing ink, classified under HS Code 321590, encompasses a variety of inks used for artistic purposes, including calligraphy, illustration, and technical drawing. These inks are typically formulated for use with pens, brushes, or other drawing instruments and are distinct from printing inks due to their specific properties like viscosity and pigmentation suited for manual application. The global trade of drawing ink is influenced by the demand in art, education, and professional design sectors, with significant production in countries with strong chemical and artistic supply industries.
Total Trade Volume
USD 250 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 60 million
24% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 45 million
18% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 40 million
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 30 million
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 25 million
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA)
Rising demand for eco-friendly and non-toxic inks
Manufacturers are shifting towards sustainable production, influencing trade patterns with higher exports of green products
2021-2022
Growth in digital art reducing traditional ink demand
Slight decline in certain markets as digital tools replace manual drawing, though niche markets for traditional art remain strong
2020-2022
Increased interest in calligraphy and hand-lettering
Boost in demand for specialty inks, particularly in North America and Europe, driving trade growth
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines on chemical components in inks, requiring manufacturers to reformulate products for compliance.
January 2023
Increased production costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volume from non-compliant regions
A bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on drawing inks and other art supplies, fostering greater market access between the two countries.
March 2022
Boosted trade volume between Japan and China, with a projected 15% increase in ink exports
The United States reduced tariffs on certain Chinese art supplies, including drawing inks, as part of broader trade negotiations.
September 2022
Encouraged imports from China, benefiting US consumers with lower prices but challenging domestic producers