HS Code:
Men's or boys' knitted or crocheted pullovers and cardigans under HS Code 6110.90.10 are specialized apparel items made with 70% or more by weight of silk. These products are characterized by a stitch density of more than 9 stitches per 2 cm in the direction the stitches were formed and an average of less than 10 stitches per linear cm in each direction over a 10 cm by 10 cm area. These garments must reach the waist to qualify under this subheading. This category represents a niche segment of the global apparel market, often associated with high-end fashion due to the luxury nature of silk and the intricate craftsmanship required.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map
$60 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$15 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$8 million USD
5.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
10.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
16% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Growing demand for sustainable and ethical fashion
Increased focus on traceable silk supply chains and eco-friendly production methods, boosting demand for certified products
2021-2023
Rise in luxury apparel consumption in emerging markets
Higher exports to countries like India and Brazil, where affluent consumers are driving demand for premium silk garments
2020-2022
Shift towards online retail platforms
E-commerce growth has facilitated direct-to-consumer sales for niche silk apparel, reducing dependency on traditional retail channels
2019-2023
The European Union has implemented new regulations requiring detailed certification of silk content and ethical sourcing for knitted apparel under HS 6110.90.10 to combat misrepresentation and unsustainable practices.
March 2023
Exporters to the EU, especially from Asia, may face higher compliance costs, potentially affecting trade volumes in the short term.
Recent negotiations between the US and China have resulted in reduced tariffs on certain silk apparel categories, including pullovers and cardigans, as part of a broader trade de-escalation effort.
January 2023
This is expected to boost Chinese exports to the US, potentially increasing their market share in this category.
Italian fashion houses and trade associations have launched a collaborative initiative to promote sustainable silk production, impacting the supply chain for high-end knitted apparel.
June 2022
This strengthens Italy's position as a leader in luxury silk apparel, potentially increasing export prices and demand for premium products.