HS Code:
Laparotomy sponges, classified under HS Code 300590 (other medical wadding, gauze, bandages, and similar articles), are sterile, absorbent pads used during surgical procedures, particularly abdominal surgeries, to absorb blood and other fluids, protect organs, and maintain a clear surgical field. These sponges are critical in healthcare settings and are made from materials like cotton or rayon, often with radiopaque markers to prevent retention in the body post-surgery. The global trade of laparotomy sponges is driven by the demand for surgical supplies in hospitals and clinics, influenced by factors such as healthcare infrastructure development, aging populations, and the rise in surgical procedures worldwide.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) reports
USD 320 million
26.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 250 million
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 180 million
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like the EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for disposable surgical supplies
Increased trade volume as hospitals shift to single-use laparotomy sponges to reduce infection risks, boosting exports from manufacturing hubs like China and India.
2021-2022
Technological advancements in sponge design
Introduction of sponges with enhanced absorbency and radiopaque markers has driven demand for premium products, favoring exporters with advanced manufacturing capabilities like the US and Germany.
2020-2022
Growth in minimally invasive surgeries
While reducing the need for traditional laparotomy sponges in some procedures, it has spurred demand for specialized smaller sponges, maintaining overall market stability.
2019-2022
The US Food and Drug Administration introduced stricter guidelines for the manufacturing and labeling of laparotomy sponges to prevent surgical retention incidents, mandating advanced tracking technologies.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the US market, potentially benefiting domestic manufacturers and raising barriers for smaller international suppliers.
A new trade agreement between the EU and China reduced tariffs on medical supplies, including laparotomy sponges, to facilitate supply chain resilience post-COVID-19.
January 2023
Boosted exports from China to EU countries, intensifying competition for European manufacturers while lowering costs for healthcare providers.
The Indian government launched incentives under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to boost the production and export of medical textiles, including laparotomy sponges.
April 2022
Increased global market share for Indian exporters, particularly in price-sensitive markets in Africa and Southeast Asia, challenging established players like China.