HS Code:
The Shirts (440) category, typically classified under HS Code 6105 (Men's or boys' shirts, knitted or crocheted) or 6205 (Men's or boys' shirts, not knitted or crocheted), encompasses a wide range of apparel items including casual, formal, and sports shirts. This category is a significant segment of the global apparel industry, driven by fashion trends, seasonal demand, and economic factors. Shirts are primarily made from cotton, polyester, or blended fabrics, with production often concentrated in countries with low labor costs and established textile industries. The trade of shirts is influenced by consumer preferences, trade agreements, and sustainability concerns.
Total Trade Volume
USD 30.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 8.2 billion
26.9% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 5.1 billion
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 3.8 billion
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.9 billion
9.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.7 billion
5.6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
12.5%
Highest Rate
35% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Vietnam FTA or USMCA)
Shift towards sustainable materials
Increased demand for organic cotton and recycled polyester shirts, pushing manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly practices
2021-2022
Rise of e-commerce
Growth in online sales channels has boosted shirt exports, especially for fast-fashion brands targeting younger demographics
2020-2022
Nearshoring in apparel production
Countries like Mexico and Turkey are gaining market share due to proximity to major markets (US and EU) and shorter supply chains
2022
The EVFTA, implemented in 2020, has reduced tariffs on Vietnamese apparel exports to the EU, boosting Vietnam's shirt exports significantly.
August 2020
Increased Vietnam's market share in the EU, challenging competitors like Bangladesh and India.
Ongoing trade disputes have led to higher tariffs on Chinese apparel, prompting buyers to diversify sourcing to countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam.
2021-2022
Shift in trade patterns, with reduced reliance on Chinese exports for shirts in the US market.
New EU regulations under the Circular Economy Action Plan require stricter sustainability standards for apparel, including shirts.
March 2022
Manufacturers face higher compliance costs but gain access to a growing market for sustainable products.