HS Code:
The 'Not Lined' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code typically refers to products such as paper, notebooks, or other stationery items that do not feature printed lines. This category can also extend to certain textile or material products that are unlined or lack an inner lining. These products are widely used in educational, office, and industrial settings. Global trade in this category is influenced by factors such as raw material availability, manufacturing costs, and demand for sustainable or eco-friendly products.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable and recycled materials
Increased production costs but higher market acceptance in eco-conscious regions like Europe
2021-2022
Digitalization reducing demand for traditional paper products
Decline in certain sub-categories like notebooks, offset by growth in specialty unlined paper for art and design
2020-2022
Growth in e-commerce packaging needs
Boost in demand for unlined paper and cardboard for packaging solutions
2022
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring a higher percentage of recycled content in paper products, including those in the 'Not Lined' category.
June 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, but potential for market growth for sustainable producers.
A revised trade agreement between the US and China reduced tariffs on certain stationery products, including unlined paper goods.
March 2023
Expected increase in Chinese exports to the US, potentially affecting domestic producers.
India announced subsidies for domestic paper manufacturers to reduce reliance on imports and promote local production of unlined paper products.
January 2023
Likely to reduce import volumes while increasing India's export capacity in the long term.