HS Code:
Polyethylene micro-tubes with an interior diameter of 0.01 mm and a wall thickness of 0.05 mm (classified under HS subheading 3917.32.00) are specialized plastic tubes used primarily in medical, laboratory, and industrial applications. These micro-tubes are critical for fluid transfer, micro-irrigation systems, and as components in precision equipment due to their small size and durability. They are made from polyethylene, a lightweight and chemically resistant polymer, making them suitable for various high-precision tasks.
Total Trade Volume
USD 120 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Growing demand in medical applications
Increased use in microfluidics and diagnostic equipment has driven a 15% annual growth in demand, particularly in North America and Europe.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable materials
Manufacturers are exploring bio-based polyethylene to meet environmental regulations, though adoption remains slow due to cost constraints.
2022
Rising production in Asia-Pacific
Lower production costs in countries like China and South Korea have increased export volumes, impacting global pricing structures.
2020-2022
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on single-use plastics, impacting the production and import of polyethylene micro-tubes unless certified as recyclable or bio-based.
July 2023
Potential increase in production costs for non-compliant manufacturers and a push towards sustainable alternatives.
A recent amendment in trade agreements reduced tariffs on specific plastic products, including micro-tubes, from 7.5% to 3.5% for Chinese exports to the US.
March 2023
Likely to boost Chinese exports to the US, intensifying competition for domestic manufacturers.
A major US-based company introduced a new line of polyethylene micro-tubes optimized for microfluidic devices, gaining significant market attention.
September 2023
Expected to drive demand in the medical and research sectors, with a projected 10% market growth in the next two years.