HS Code:
The category 'Having an outer surface impregnated, coated, covered, or laminated with rubber or plastics material which completely obscures the underlying fabric' falls under the Harmonized System (HS) Code related to textile products treated with rubber or plastics (often under HS Chapter 59 or specific codes like 5903). This category includes fabrics used in various applications such as protective clothing, industrial materials, and consumer goods like raincoats or tarpaulins. These products are characterized by their enhanced durability, waterproofing, or resistance to environmental factors due to the rubber or plastic coating.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $5.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$1.8 billion USD
34.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$620 million USD
11.9% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$480 million USD
9.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$350 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$280 million USD
5.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries for protective measures)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA or within WTO member states with specific exemptions)
Growing demand for sustainable materials
Increased R&D in eco-friendly coatings and biodegradable plastics, shifting market preference towards greener alternatives.
2021-2023
Rise in industrial applications
Higher demand in sectors like automotive and construction for durable, weather-resistant materials, boosting trade volumes.
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions
Pandemic-related delays and raw material shortages have led to price volatility and regional trade imbalances.
2020-2021
The European Union introduced stricter regulations under the Green Deal to limit non-recyclable plastic coatings on fabrics, pushing manufacturers to innovate.
March 2023
Potential increase in production costs but long-term market access benefits for compliant companies.
A new phase of trade negotiations reduced tariffs on certain coated fabric categories, easing export pressures for Chinese manufacturers.
January 2023
Expected to increase trade volume between the two countries by 5-8% in this category.
South Korean firms unveiled new nanotechnology-based coatings that enhance durability without increasing weight, gaining market traction.
September 2022
Likely to shift competitive advantage towards high-tech producers in Asia.