HS Code:
Single yarn, classified under HS Code 5205 (for cotton yarn) and other related codes depending on the material (e.g., wool, synthetic), refers to yarn that is not plied or twisted with other yarns. It is a fundamental product in the textile industry, used for weaving, knitting, and other fabric production processes. This category includes yarns made from natural fibers like cotton and wool, as well as synthetic fibers like polyester. Single yarn is traded globally in significant volumes due to its essential role in garment and textile manufacturing, with production often concentrated in countries with strong agricultural or industrial bases for raw materials.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $15 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map and UN Comtrade Database
$3.2 billion USD
21.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$2.8 billion USD
18.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.5 billion USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.2 billion USD
8.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$900 million USD
6.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain countries on non-preferential trade partners)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-India FTA or within ASEAN)
Shift towards sustainable and organic yarn
Increased demand for certified organic cotton yarn and recycled synthetic yarn, pushing exporters to adopt eco-friendly practices.
2021-2023
Rising production costs due to energy prices
Higher yarn prices globally, affecting competitiveness of smaller exporters while favoring vertically integrated producers.
2022-2023
Regionalization of supply chains
Countries are focusing on nearshoring to reduce dependency on distant suppliers, boosting trade within regions like South Asia and Southeast Asia.
2020-2023
As part of ongoing trade negotiations, the US reduced additional tariffs on certain categories of Chinese single yarn from 25% to 7.5%, aiming to balance domestic industry protection with supply chain needs.
March 2023
Likely to increase Chinese yarn imports to the US, affecting competitors like India and Vietnam.
The EU introduced stricter sustainability requirements under the Green Deal, mandating traceability and carbon footprint reporting for yarn imports starting in 2024.
June 2023
Exporters without compliance mechanisms may face market access barriers, while sustainable producers gain a competitive edge.
India rolled out a PLI scheme for the textile sector, offering financial incentives to boost domestic yarn production and exports, targeting a 10% increase in output by 2025.
September 2022
Expected to strengthen Indiaโs position as a leading exporter, potentially intensifying competition with China and Pakistan.