HS Code:
Newsprint, in rolls or sheets, falls under HS Code 4801. This category includes paper used primarily for the printing of newspapers, typically made from mechanical pulp with specific weight and thickness characteristics. It is a critical commodity in the publishing and printing industries, though its demand is influenced by the shift towards digital media.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $5.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$1.3 billion USD
25% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
$800 million USD
15% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$600 million USD
12% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
$500 million USD
10% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
$400 million USD
8% of global trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as NAFTA/USMCA and EU trade pacts)
Decline in demand due to digital media
Reduced global trade volume as newspaper circulation decreases, particularly in North America and Europe
2018-2022
Shift to sustainable production
Increased costs for producers due to stricter environmental regulations, but also growing niche markets for eco-friendly newsprint
2020-2023
Rising demand in emerging markets
Countries in Africa and South Asia show increased imports due to growing literacy rates and print media consumption
2019-2022
The U.S. imposed anti-dumping and countervailing duties on Canadian newsprint in 2018, which were later reduced after legal challenges. Tensions remain over pricing practices.
January 2018 - August 2022
Increased costs for U.S. publishers, contributing to further declines in print media
The European Union's Green Deal initiatives are pushing for sustainable forestry and reduced carbon footprints in paper production, affecting newsprint exporters to the EU.
March 2021
Higher compliance costs for exporters but potential for premium pricing in the EU market
Sanctions on Russia and supply chain disruptions due to the conflict have impacted newsprint exports from Russia, a major supplier to Europe and Asia.
February 2022 onwards
Price volatility and supply shortages in some regions, benefiting alternative suppliers like Canada and Finland