HS Code:
The 'Not lined with textile fabrics' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code generally refers to articles of apparel and clothing accessories, such as gloves, mittens, or other protective gear, that are made of materials like leather, plastics, or rubber and are not lined with textile fabrics. This category is significant in industries focused on protective equipment, fashion, and industrial applications. Products in this category are often valued for their durability, resistance to elements, and specialized use cases.
Total Trade Volume
USD 12.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
25% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Vietnam FTA)
Rising demand for protective gear
Increased trade volume due to heightened focus on workplace safety and health regulations globally, particularly post-COVID-19.
2020-2022
Shift to sustainable materials
Growing preference for eco-friendly and recyclable materials in production, influencing sourcing and manufacturing practices.
2021-2023
Regional manufacturing hubs
Countries like Vietnam and India are emerging as key manufacturing hubs due to lower labor costs and favorable trade agreements.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter safety and chemical compliance standards for protective gear not lined with textile fabrics, affecting exporters from Asia.
March 2023
Increased production costs for non-compliant exporters; potential market access barriers for smaller manufacturers.
A new phase of trade negotiations reduced tariffs on certain protective gear categories, boosting exports from China to the US.
January 2023
Positive for Chinese exporters; increased competition for other exporting countries in the US market.
The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) further reduced tariffs on apparel and accessories, including this category, enhancing Vietnam's market position.
August 2022
Significant growth in Vietnam’s export volume to EU countries; potential shift in trade patterns.