HS Code:
The 'Trousers' category, classified under HS Code 6203 (for men's or boys' trousers) and 6204 (for women's or girls' trousers), includes a wide range of apparel items such as jeans, slacks, cargo pants, and leggings made from various materials like cotton, denim, wool, and synthetic fibers. This category is a significant segment of the global apparel market, driven by fashion trends, seasonal demand, and functional needs across casual, formal, and sportswear segments. Trousers are a staple in both developed and emerging markets, with production often concentrated in countries with low labor costs and strong textile industries.
Total Trade Volume
USD 90 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 30 billion
33.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 15 billion
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 10 billion
11.1% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 7 billion
7.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 5 billion
5.6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
12% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (applied by certain countries on non-preferential trade partners)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Vietnam FTA or USMCA)
Shift towards sustainable materials
Increased demand for trousers made from organic cotton and recycled fibers due to consumer preference for eco-friendly products.
2021-2023
Rise of athleisure wear
Growing popularity of casual and sporty trousers like leggings and joggers, driven by lifestyle changes and remote work trends.
2020-2022
E-commerce growth
Significant increase in online sales of trousers, with platforms like Amazon and Shein reshaping distribution channels and pricing strategies.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations under the EU Textile Strategy, mandating traceability and eco-labeling for trousers and other apparel entering the market.
March 2023
Increased production costs for exporters but potential long-term benefits through access to a sustainability-conscious consumer base.
Continued trade disputes have led to sustained high tariffs on Chinese trousers imported into the US, prompting diversification of supply chains to Vietnam and Bangladesh.
January 2022
Shift in market share towards Southeast Asian countries, with potential cost increases for US consumers.
Bangladesh benefits from the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), allowing duty-free access for trousers, boosting its export competitiveness.
November 2021
Strengthened position of Bangladesh in the European market, potentially increasing trade volume by 10-15% over the next few years.