HS Code:
The 'Soap in other forms' category (HS Code: 340120) encompasses soap products that are not in bar, cake, or molded forms. This includes liquid soaps, soap flakes, powders, pastes, and other preparations used for washing or cleaning purposes. These products are widely used in households, industries, and commercial sectors for personal hygiene and cleaning applications. The category excludes organic surface-active agents and preparations classified under different HS codes.
Total Trade Volume
USD 3.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 520 million
16.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 480 million
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 350 million
10.9% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 300 million
9.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 250 million
7.8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for eco-friendly and organic liquid soaps
Increased market share for sustainable products, pushing manufacturers to adopt greener formulations and packaging
2021-2022
Growth in e-commerce distribution channels
Small and medium-sized enterprises gain access to global markets, intensifying competition among suppliers
2020-2022
Shift towards antibacterial and sanitizing products
Post-COVID-19 consumer behavior drives demand for hygiene-focused soap products, boosting trade volumes
2020-2022
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on the chemical composition of liquid soaps to ensure biodegradability and reduce environmental impact.
June 2023
Manufacturers exporting to the EU must reformulate products or face market access barriers, potentially increasing production costs.
Recent negotiations under the US-China Phase One trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain cleaning products, including liquid soaps.
March 2023
Enhanced market access for Chinese exporters to the US, likely increasing trade volumes in this category.
Ongoing disruptions due to geopolitical tensions and port congestion have delayed shipments of raw materials for soap production.
January 2023
Temporary price increases and supply shortages in key markets, affecting trade flows.