HS Code:
The category of medical gloves, mittens, and mitts (HS Code: 4015.11) includes protective gloves made of rubber or latex, primarily used in healthcare settings for hygiene and safety purposes. These products are critical in preventing contamination and the spread of infections in medical environments. This category covers surgical gloves, examination gloves, and other protective handwear specifically designed for medical use. Global demand for medical gloves has surged in recent years due to heightened health awareness, pandemics, and stringent regulations in healthcare sectors worldwide.
Total Trade Volume
USD 8.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 4.2 billion
49.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.8 billion
21.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.1 billion
12.9% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 0.6 billion
7.1% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 0.3 billion
3.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-ASEAN or USMCA)
Increased demand due to pandemics
Significant spike in trade volume and prices as countries stockpiled medical gloves during the COVID-19 crisis, leading to supply chain bottlenecks.
2020-2022
Shift towards sustainable materials
Growing interest in biodegradable and eco-friendly gloves to reduce environmental impact, influencing production methods and trade patterns.
2021-2023
Automation in manufacturing
Adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies in top exporting countries like Malaysia and Thailand, reducing costs and increasing export competitiveness.
2019-2023
The United States extended a temporary waiver on tariffs for medical gloves imported from certain countries to address supply shortages during health emergencies.
March 2023
Increased imports from Malaysia and Thailand, stabilizing prices in the US market.
Malaysia announced plans to expand production capacity for medical gloves, targeting a 10% increase in exports by 2025, supported by government incentives.
July 2023
Strengthens Malaysia's position as the global leader in medical glove exports, potentially impacting competitors like Thailand and Vietnam.
The European Union updated its quality and safety standards for medical gloves, requiring stricter compliance with environmental and health regulations.
January 2023
May increase production costs for exporters but ensures higher product safety, benefiting consumer trust in the long term.