HS Code:
The 'Other Face Masks' category, often classified under HS Code 6307.90 (other made-up textile articles, including protective face masks not elsewhere specified), includes non-medical and non-surgical face masks used for general protection, fashion, or industrial purposes. This category excludes masks specifically designed for medical use (e.g., surgical masks under HS 6307.90.40). These products gained significant global attention during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) and public health measures. They are typically made from woven or non-woven fabrics and may include reusable cloth masks or masks with specific filtration capabilities.
Total Trade Volume
USD 12.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & World Trade Organization (WTO) Statistics
USD 5.8 billion
46.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.2 billion
9.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 0.9 billion
7.2% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 0.7 billion
5.6% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
USD 0.5 billion
4.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic textile industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Surge in demand due to pandemics
Global trade volume spiked by over 300% between 2019 and 2021 as countries stockpiled protective equipment, leading to supply chain bottlenecks and price inflation.
2020-2021
Shift to sustainable materials
Increasing consumer preference for eco-friendly and reusable masks made from organic cotton or biodegradable materials, influencing production in major exporting countries.
2022
Decline in demand post-pandemic
As vaccination rates increased and restrictions eased, demand for non-medical masks dropped in 2022, leading to oversupply and reduced prices in some markets.
2022-2023
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines on the production and labeling of textile-based face masks, mandating clear information on reusability and environmental impact.
March 2023
Exporters to the EU must adapt to new compliance costs, potentially increasing prices but improving product transparency for consumers.
The United States extended tariff waivers on certain protective face masks imported from China to address lingering supply shortages in specific sectors.
September 2023
This has temporarily boosted imports from China, maintaining competitive pricing in the US market for non-medical masks.
Vietnam emerged as a key supplier of face masks due to favorable trade agreements and low production costs, overtaking several traditional exporters.
January 2023
Increased competition for established exporters like China, potentially diversifying global supply chains.