HS Code:
Printcloth, categorized under HS Code 520852 (for cotton fabrics, printed, weighing not more than 200 g/mยฒ), refers to lightweight woven cotton fabrics that are printed with designs or patterns. These fabrics are widely used in the apparel industry for making shirts, dresses, and other garments, as well as in home textiles like curtains and bed linens. The global trade of printcloth is influenced by factors such as raw cotton availability, textile manufacturing capabilities, and consumer demand for fashion and home dรฉcor 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
$600 million USD
24% 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
Increasing
$150 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-India FTA or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable and organic cotton printcloth
Increased production costs but higher market value and consumer preference for eco-friendly products
2021-2022
Shift towards digital printing technology
Allows for faster production cycles and customization, reducing waste and inventory costs
2020-2022
Growth in fast fashion industry
Higher demand for affordable printcloth, particularly in Asia-Pacific markets
2019-2022
The United States introduced additional tariffs on Chinese printcloth imports as part of ongoing trade tensions, citing unfair trade practices.
March 2023
Potential increase in prices for US consumers and a shift in sourcing to other countries like India and Bangladesh.
Negotiations for the EU-India FTA have advanced, with potential reductions in tariffs on printcloth exports from India to the EU.
June 2023
Expected to boost Indian exports and provide European buyers with more competitive pricing.
Major textile producers in China and India are adopting Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification for printcloth to meet international demand for sustainable products.
August 2023
Improves market access to eco-conscious markets like the EU and North America, though it increases production costs.