HS Code:
Textile fabrics and felts, endless or fitted with linking devices, of a kind used in papermaking or similar machines (e.g., for pulp or asbestos-cement) fall under HS Code 5911.31. These products are specialized industrial textiles designed for use in machinery for papermaking, pulp processing, or asbestos-cement production. They are engineered for durability, heat resistance, and specific mechanical properties to withstand the rigorous conditions of industrial processes. This category includes endless felts and fabrics that form continuous loops or are fitted with linking mechanisms for seamless operation in machinery.
Total Trade Volume
USD 250 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 60 million
24% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 45 million
18% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 35 million
14% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 30 million
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 25 million
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
6.5%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Increased demand for sustainable materials
Manufacturers are shifting towards eco-friendly and recyclable felts to meet environmental regulations, boosting innovation in the sector.
2021-2022
Automation in papermaking industry
Rising automation has led to higher demand for high-performance endless felts with precise specifications, driving market growth in developed regions.
2020-2022
Shift of production to Asia-Pacific
Lower production costs in countries like China and India have increased their export share, challenging traditional European dominance.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter environmental standards for industrial textiles, requiring manufacturers to reduce chemical usage in production.
March 2023
This may increase production costs for exporters to the EU but also encourages sustainable innovation in the sector.
A new trade agreement phase reduced tariffs on industrial textiles, including papermaking felts, between the US and China.
January 2023
This has boosted Chinese exports to the US, potentially increasing competition for domestic US producers.
A leading German manufacturer developed a new type of endless felt with enhanced durability and heat resistance, tailored for high-speed papermaking machines.
September 2022
This innovation is expected to set a new industry standard, potentially increasing Germany's market share.