HS Code:
The 'Suitable for food or drink contact' category includes products such as containers, packaging materials, utensils, and machinery components that are specifically designed to come into contact with food or beverages. These products must meet stringent safety and regulatory standards to ensure they do not contaminate or pose health risks. Common materials in this category include food-grade plastics, stainless steel, glass, and silicone. This category falls under various HS Codes depending on the specific product, such as 3924.10 (plastic tableware and kitchenware) and 7013.37 (glassware for table or kitchen purposes). Global trade in this category is driven by demand in the food and beverage industry, consumer safety regulations, and sustainability concerns.
Total Trade Volume
USD 45.3 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 12.5 billion
27.6% of total trade
Increasing
USD 8.2 billion
18.1% of total trade
Stable
USD 5.1 billion
11.3% of total trade
Increasing
USD 3.9 billion
8.6% of total trade
Stable
USD 2.8 billion
6.2% of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
6.5%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable packaging
Increased trade in biodegradable and recyclable food contact materials as consumers and regulations push for eco-friendly solutions.
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce food delivery
Surge in demand for disposable food containers and packaging, boosting trade volumes in plastics and paper-based products.
2020-2022
Technological advancements in materials
Adoption of innovative materials like antimicrobial coatings for food contact surfaces, driving trade in high-value products.
2022-2023
The European Union implemented a ban on certain single-use plastic items for food contact, such as straws and cutlery, under the Single-Use Plastics Directive.
July 2021
Shift in trade towards alternative materials like paper and bioplastics, affecting exporters of traditional plastic products.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued updated guidelines on acceptable materials for food contact, tightening restrictions on certain chemical additives.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the U.S. market, with potential delays in shipments due to stricter testing.
China introduced policies to promote green packaging in the food and beverage sector, encouraging the use of recyclable and reusable materials.
January 2022
Boost in domestic production and export of sustainable food contact products, strengthening Chinaโs market position.