HS Code:
The 'Semibleached or Bleached' category typically falls under HS Code 4703, which includes chemical wood pulp, soda or sulfate, other than dissolving grades, that has been semibleached or bleached. This product is a key raw material in the paper and pulp industry, used primarily for manufacturing paper, cardboard, and other cellulose-based products. It is produced by chemically treating wood to remove lignin and other impurities, resulting in a pulp with improved brightness and strength.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 40 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
12 million metric tons
30% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
8 million metric tons
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
6 million metric tons
15% of total trade of total trade
Stable
4 million metric tons
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
3 million metric tons
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like NAFTA/USMCA or EU agreements)
Rising demand for sustainable packaging
Increased demand for semibleached and bleached pulp as companies shift to eco-friendly paper-based packaging solutions
2021-2023
Digitalization reducing demand for traditional paper
Moderate decline in pulp used for printing and writing paper, offset by growth in packaging and tissue paper segments
2020-2022
Shift towards certified sustainable forestry
Higher production costs but increased market access in regions with strict environmental standards like the EU
2019-2023
The European Union's Green Deal has introduced stricter sustainability criteria for imported wood pulp, requiring certification of sustainable sourcing.
January 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters but potential for premium pricing in the EU market
Brazil announced the opening of two new pulp mills, boosting its export capacity by 10% and solidifying its position as the global leader.
March 2022
Potential oversupply in the short term, which may lower global prices
A new phase of the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain pulp products, facilitating increased exports from the US to China.
September 2022
Positive for US exporters, with an expected 5% increase in trade volume to China