HS Code:
Transfers (decalcomanias) under HS Code 4908 are printed designs or images that can be transferred onto another surface upon contact, often used for decoration or labeling on ceramics, glass, textiles, and other materials. This category includes both vitrifiable and non-vitrifiable decalcomanias, catering to industries like automotive, ceramics, and consumer goods for branding and aesthetic purposes. The global trade of transfers is influenced by manufacturing hubs, industrial demand, and customization trends.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $250 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$80 million USD
32% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$45 million USD
18% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$30 million USD
12% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
10% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$15 million USD
6% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Growing demand for customized decals in automotive and consumer electronics
Increased trade volume in countries with advanced printing technologies like China and Germany
2021-2022
Shift towards eco-friendly and water-based transfers
Higher compliance costs but growing market share in regions with strict environmental laws like the EU
2020-2022
Digital printing technology adoption
Reduction in production costs and lead times, benefiting smaller exporters and increasing competition
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter REACH compliance requirements for chemical components in decalcomanias to reduce environmental and health risks.
January 2023
Increased production costs for exporters to the EU but improved market access for compliant manufacturers.
A new bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on certain printed goods, including transfers, between the US and China as part of broader trade negotiations.
March 2022
Boosted exports from China to the US, contributing to a 5% increase in trade volume for this category.
South Korean government and private sector collaborated on R&D for advanced digital printing techniques for transfers, targeting export growth.
September 2022
Positioned South Korea as an emerging leader in high-quality, cost-effective decal production.