HS Code:
The category of Memorandum pads, letter pads, and similar articles (HS Code: 482010) includes various stationery products made of paper or paperboard, such as notebooks, writing pads, diaries, and memo blocks, primarily used for writing, note-taking, and organizational purposes. These products are essential in educational, office, and personal settings, with demand influenced by factors like literacy rates, corporate activities, and digital substitution trends.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 350 million
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 180 million
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.3%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade or USMCA)
Shift towards eco-friendly products
Increased demand for memorandum pads made from recycled paper or sustainable sources due to growing environmental awareness.
2021-2022
Digital substitution
Decline in demand in developed markets as digital note-taking apps and devices replace traditional paper products.
2020-2022
Growth in educational sectors
Rising literacy programs and school enrollment in developing countries are boosting demand for affordable stationery products.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring stationery products to meet higher sustainability and recyclability standards, affecting exporters to the region.
June 2023
Increased production costs for non-compliant exporters, potential market share loss for smaller manufacturers.
Additional tariffs were imposed on Chinese paper products, including memorandum pads, as part of ongoing trade disputes, leading to supply chain shifts.
March 2023
Higher prices for US consumers, opportunities for alternative suppliers from countries like Vietnam and India.
A rise in remote working and home offices has spurred demand for personalized and premium memorandum pads and planners.
January 2022
Growth in niche markets for high-end and customized stationery products.