HS Code:
The 'Not coated or plated with metal' category (often classified under various HS Codes depending on the specific product, such as HS 3920 for plastic sheets or HS 4802 for certain papers) includes products that are not coated, plated, or laminated with metal. This category encompasses a wide range of materials like plastics, paper, textiles, and other non-metallic goods used across industries such as packaging, construction, and manufacturing. These products are essential in global trade due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness, often serving as raw materials or intermediate goods.
Total Trade Volume
USD 120 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 35 billion
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 18 billion
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 12 billion
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 9 billion
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 7 billion
5.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
6.5%
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by certain developing countries on specific plastic goods)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Shift towards sustainable materials
Increased demand for biodegradable and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics in this category, reducing trade in conventional products.
2021-2023
Rising production costs due to raw material shortages
Higher prices for non-coated plastic and paper products, leading to reduced export competitiveness for some countries.
2022
Growth in e-commerce packaging demand
Boost in trade volume for non-coated paper and plastic materials used in packaging, especially in Asia-Pacific regions.
2020-2023
The European Union expanded its ban on single-use plastics, impacting the trade of non-coated plastic products used in packaging.
July 2023
Significant reduction in imports of certain plastic goods to EU markets, pushing exporters to pivot to alternative materials or markets.
A new phase of the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on specific non-coated materials, boosting bilateral trade in this category.
March 2023
Increased export volumes from China to the US, benefiting Chinese manufacturers and US importers.
Ongoing disruptions in global shipping and raw material supply have affected the availability of non-coated products, particularly plastics and paper.
January 2023
Higher costs and delays in trade, prompting countries to seek regional suppliers to mitigate risks.