HS Code:
The 'Subject to Wool Restraints (444)' category, often classified under specific Harmonized System (HS) codes related to wool and woolen products, includes textiles and apparel made from wool that are subject to specific trade restraints or quotas. These restraints are typically imposed under international agreements to protect domestic industries or manage trade balances. This category primarily covers items such as woolen suits, coats, and other apparel products that fall under trade agreements like the Multi-Fibre Arrangement (MFA) or subsequent bilateral agreements. The restrictions often aim to limit imports into major markets like the United States or the European Union to support local wool industries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $2.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Reports
$800 million USD
32% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$600 million USD
24% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$400 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$300 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
12.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by the United States on certain wool apparel)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-UK Trade Deal)
Shift towards sustainable wool production
Increased demand for ethically sourced and eco-friendly wool products, driving up prices for certified producers while pressuring non-compliant exporters.
2021-2022
Decline in demand for formal wool apparel
Reduced trade volumes in traditional markets like the UK due to changing fashion trends towards casual wear, impacting exporters reliant on formalwear markets.
2020-2022
Rising competition from synthetic fibers
Substitution of wool with cheaper synthetic alternatives in budget segments, affecting trade volumes for low-cost wool exporters like India.
2019-2022
The United States extended specific tariff-rate quotas on wool apparel imports under Category 444 to protect domestic manufacturers, affecting exporters from China and India.
March 2023
Likely to restrict export growth for affected countries while benefiting domestic US wool producers in the short term.
The European Union introduced stricter sustainability criteria for wool imports as part of the Green Deal, mandating traceability and environmental compliance.
July 2022
Increased compliance costs for exporters but potential market access advantages for sustainable producers like Australia.
Italy and China signed a bilateral agreement to ease restrictions on wool apparel trade, focusing on high-end products and mutual market access.
September 2022
Expected to boost trade volumes between the two countries, potentially increasing Italy's export share in the Chinese luxury market.