HS Code:
The 'Other Fabrics' category (HS Code: 59-60, including impregnated, coated, covered or laminated textile fabrics, and knitted or crocheted fabrics) encompasses a wide range of textile products that do not fall under standard woven or non-woven categories. These include specialized fabrics used in industrial applications, technical textiles, and innovative materials for sectors like automotive, construction, and healthcare. This category is critical for niche markets requiring specific functionalities such as waterproofing, insulation, or durability.
Total Trade Volume
USD 45.3 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 12.8 billion
28.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 5.6 billion
12.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 4.9 billion
10.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 3.7 billion
8.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.9 billion
6.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for technical textiles in automotive and healthcare sectors
Increased production and innovation in high-performance fabrics, boosting trade volumes by 15% annually
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics
Growing preference for biodegradable and recycled materials, influencing 20% of market demand
2020-2022
Digitalization and smart textiles integration
Emerging use of conductive fabrics for wearable technology, creating a niche market worth USD 2 billion
2022
The European Union introduced stricter environmental regulations under the Green Deal, requiring imported fabrics to meet sustainability criteria.
March 2023
Potential increase in compliance costs for exporters, particularly from Asia, by 10-15%, while fostering eco-friendly innovation.
A new phase of the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain fabric categories, including coated textiles, by 5%.
January 2023
Boosted Chinese exports to the US by USD 1.2 billion in the first half of 2023, enhancing market access.
South Korea announced a USD 500 million investment in R&D for smart textiles, focusing on wearable tech and industrial applications.
June 2023
Expected to position South Korea as a leader in high-tech fabric exports, potentially increasing its market share by 5% by 2025.