HS Code:
The category of Envelopes, letter cards, plain postcards, and correspondence cards, of paper or paperboard; boxes, pouches, wallets, and writing compendiums, of paper or paperboard, containing an assortment of paper stationery (HS Code: 4817) encompasses a variety of paper-based stationery products used for correspondence and organization. These products are essential for personal, educational, and professional communication, often serving as a medium for handwritten notes, greetings, and official letters. This category also includes packaged sets of stationery items, which are popular as gifts or for office use. The global trade of these products is influenced by factors such as digitalization (reducing demand for traditional paper correspondence), sustainability trends (increasing demand for eco-friendly materials), and cultural preferences for physical greeting cards and letters in certain regions.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$180 million USD
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$90 million USD
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Decline in demand due to digital communication
Reduced trade volume in traditional markets as emails and messaging apps replace physical correspondence, particularly in developed economies.
2018-2022
Rise in eco-friendly and recycled paper products
Increased demand for sustainable stationery products, especially in Europe and North America, driving innovation in biodegradable packaging and materials.
2020-2023
Growth in niche markets for premium and artisanal stationery
Boosted exports from countries producing high-quality, handmade, or culturally unique stationery items, particularly targeting gift markets.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations under the Green Deal, mandating higher recycled content in paper products, including stationery items under HS Code 4817.
January 2023
Increased production costs for non-compliant exporters but opened opportunities for sustainable producers to gain market share in the EU.
Ongoing trade tensions have led to additional tariffs on Chinese paper stationery products entering the US, prompting importers to explore alternative suppliers in Southeast Asia.
Mid-2022
Shift in trade patterns, with countries like Vietnam and Indonesia seeing a rise in exports to the US market.
A report by the International Trade Centre highlighted a 10% year-on-year decline in global demand for traditional envelopes and postcards due to digital alternatives.
October 2022
Manufacturers are pivoting towards niche markets and sustainable products to offset losses in traditional segments.