HS Code:
The Stationery category, typically classified under various HS Codes such as 48 (Paper and Paperboard) and 96 (Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles like pens and pencils), encompasses a wide range of products used for writing, drawing, and office or school supplies. This includes items like notebooks, pens, pencils, erasers, staplers, and other desk accessories. The global trade of stationery is driven by educational needs, office requirements, and personal use, with significant production in countries with strong manufacturing capabilities and access to raw materials like paper and plastic.
Total Trade Volume
USD 25 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Statistics
USD 8.5 billion
34% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 3.2 billion
12.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 2.8 billion
11.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.9 billion
7.6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.5 billion
6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
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 EU Single Market or USMCA)
Shift towards eco-friendly stationery
Increased demand for products made from recycled paper and biodegradable materials, influencing manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices
2021-2023
Digitalization reducing demand for traditional stationery
Decline in sales of items like notebooks and pens in developed markets due to digital note-taking and remote working tools
2020-2022
Growth in e-commerce for stationery distribution
Small and medium enterprises gaining access to global markets through online platforms, boosting trade volumes
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on the import of paper-based stationery, mandating certification for sustainable sourcing of raw materials.
March 2023
Exporters from developing countries may face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing their competitiveness in the EU market.
A new phase of the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain stationery items, facilitating smoother trade between the two nations.
January 2023
Increased export of Chinese stationery to the US, benefiting American consumers with lower prices.
India launched incentives under the 'Make in India' initiative to encourage local stationery manufacturing, aiming to reduce reliance on imports.
October 2022
Potential decrease in imports from other countries, while Indian exports are expected to rise in the coming years.