HS Code:
Playing cards, classified under HS Code 9504.40, encompass a variety of card games used for entertainment purposes, including traditional decks, specialty cards, and collectible card games. This category includes both paper and plastic playing cards, often used in casual gaming, professional gambling, and educational settings. The global trade of playing cards is influenced by cultural gaming traditions, tourism, and the rise of collectible and themed card games.
Total Trade Volume
USD 320 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 150 million
46.9% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 50 million
15.6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 30 million
9.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 25 million
7.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 20 million
6.3% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Rise in collectible card games
Increased demand for specialty and themed playing cards, boosting trade volumes by 15% annually in key markets like the US and Japan.
2021-2022
Shift to eco-friendly materials
Growing preference for sustainable, recyclable card materials, influencing production practices in Europe and North America.
2020-2022
Digital integration
Emergence of hybrid card games with digital apps, driving innovation but slightly reducing demand for traditional physical decks in younger demographics.
2022
China has increased its export capacity for playing cards by investing in automated production, maintaining low costs and dominating the global market.
Mid-2022
Increased competition for smaller manufacturers in Europe and the US, leading to price pressures.
New EU regulations mandate eco-friendly materials for playing cards, requiring manufacturers to adapt to biodegradable or recyclable options.
January 2023
Potential cost increases for non-compliant exporters, benefiting local EU producers with sustainable practices.
The US reduced tariffs on playing cards from select trade partners under updated trade agreements, aiming to lower consumer prices.
March 2023
Expected increase in imports from countries like Mexico and Canada, reshaping trade patterns in North America.