HS Code:
Strips wholly of expanded poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) (CAS No. 9002-84-0), noncellular, with adhesive backing, of a thickness greater than 3 mm but not over 30 mm, presented rolled in spools, certified by the importer as having a tensile strength of 24.1 MPa (3,500 psi) or higher per ASTM F-152, fall under HS subheading 3916.90.50. PTFE is a high-performance fluoropolymer known for its exceptional chemical resistance, thermal stability, and low friction properties. These strips are commonly used in industrial applications such as sealing, gasketing, and insulation in sectors like automotive, aerospace, and chemical processing due to their durability and adhesive backing for ease of application.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $250 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
Estimated based on data from UN Comtrade and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$75 million USD
30% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$50 million USD
20% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$40 million USD
16% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
12% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$20 million USD
8% of global trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.8% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in aerospace and automotive sectors
Increased use of PTFE strips for high-performance sealing and insulation applications due to lightweight and durable properties, driving trade volume growth by 5-7% annually
2021-2023
Shift toward sustainable production methods
Manufacturers are adopting eco-friendly processes to comply with stringent environmental regulations, potentially increasing production costs by 3-5%
2022-2023
Rising competition from alternative materials
Development of cheaper polymer substitutes may reduce PTFE strip market share in low-cost applications, impacting trade in price-sensitive regions
2020-2023
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines on the production and disposal of fluoropolymers, including PTFE, to minimize environmental impact.
March 2023
Potential increase in compliance costs for exporters to the EU, affecting profit margins by 2-4%
Negotiations under Phase One of the US-China trade deal included discussions on reducing tariffs for industrial polymers, including PTFE products.
January 2023
Possible tariff reduction could boost trade volume between the two countries by 10% in the next 2 years
New manufacturing techniques have improved the tensile strength and adhesive properties of PTFE strips, meeting higher industry standards.
September 2022
Enhanced product quality is expected to increase demand in high-end applications, particularly in aerospace, by 8% over the next 3 years