HS Code:
The 'Plain weave, weighing not more than 100 g/m²' category, typically classified under HS Code 5208.11 (for cotton fabrics) or similar codes depending on material composition, refers to lightweight woven fabrics with a plain weave structure. These fabrics are often used in apparel, home textiles, and industrial applications due to their lightweight and breathable nature. The category includes materials like cotton, polyester, or blends, and is significant in global textile trade due to its versatility and widespread use in manufacturing low-cost garments and products.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $2.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$800 million USD
32% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$500 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$200 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by some African and South American countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-GSP or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable fabrics
Increased preference for organic cotton and eco-friendly production methods is driving market shifts, with higher costs but better margins for certified producers.
2021-2023
Shift to fast fashion supply chains
Growth in demand for lightweight fabrics in fast fashion has boosted trade volumes, especially from low-cost manufacturing hubs like Bangladesh and Vietnam.
2020-2022
Digitalization of textile trade
E-commerce platforms and digital supply chain tools are facilitating direct trade, reducing costs, and improving market access for smaller exporters.
2022-2023
The European Union introduced stricter environmental regulations under the Green Deal, mandating sustainability certifications for textile imports, including lightweight plain weave fabrics.
March 2023
Exporters from developing countries may face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing competitiveness unless they adapt to eco-friendly practices.
A recent update to the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain textile categories, including lightweight fabrics, as part of a broader de-escalation of trade tensions.
January 2023
This is expected to increase Chinese exports to the US, potentially impacting other suppliers like India and Bangladesh.
Bangladesh announced a $500 million investment in modernizing textile weaving facilities, focusing on lightweight fabrics for export markets.
September 2022
This development is likely to strengthen Bangladesh's position in the global market, increasing competition for other exporters.