HS Code:
The 'Other (including single issues tied together for shipping purposes)' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code typically encompasses miscellaneous printed matter or bundled items that do not fall under specific classifications. This can include single issues of periodicals, catalogs, brochures, or other printed materials that are grouped for shipping convenience. Due to its broad and undefined nature, this category often serves as a catch-all for items that are difficult to classify elsewhere, making trade patterns less predictable and highly variable based on specific shipments and regional demands.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 300 million
25% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 180 million
15% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 120 million
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
4.5%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing economies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market)
Shift to Digital Alternatives
Decreasing demand for physical printed materials as digital publications and e-catalogs gain popularity, reducing trade volumes in this category.
2021-2022
Rise in E-commerce Packaging Needs
Increased bundling of printed materials with other goods for shipping purposes, driving sporadic growth in specific markets.
2020-2022
Sustainability Push
Growing preference for eco-friendly paper and packaging solutions, influencing trade patterns and increasing costs for non-compliant exporters.
2022
The European Union introduced stricter environmental standards for imported paper products, requiring certification for sustainable sourcing.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant regions.
A revised trade agreement between the US and China reduced tariffs on miscellaneous printed matter, including bundled shipping items.
January 2023
Boosted exports from China to the US, contributing to the increasing trend in China's trade volume.
Ongoing disruptions due to geopolitical tensions and port delays have affected the timely delivery of bundled printed materials.
Mid-2022
Led to inconsistent trade flows and increased shipping costs, particularly impacting smaller exporters.