HS Code:
Uncoated paper and paperboard of a kind used for writing, printing, or other graphic purposes, and non-perforated punch-cards and punch tape paper, in rolls or rectangular (including square) sheets of any size, other than paper of heading 4801 or 4803; hand-made paper and paperboard (HS Code: 4802) is a category that includes a wide range of paper products primarily used in offices, publishing, and educational sectors. This category excludes newsprint and certain other specific papers, focusing on products like printing paper, writing paper, and specialty hand-made paper. These products are critical for industries such as education, publishing, packaging, and administrative documentation globally.
Total Trade Volume
USD 14.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Shift towards sustainable and recycled paper products
Increased demand for eco-friendly paper has led to higher production costs but also opened new markets in environmentally conscious regions like Europe.
2021-2022
Digitalization reducing demand for traditional printing paper
Decline in demand for office and printing paper in developed economies due to digital document management systems, though offset by growth in packaging paper needs.
2020-2022
Growth in e-commerce driving packaging paper demand
Rising online shopping has increased the need for paperboard and related materials for packaging, especially in Asia-Pacific and North America.
2021-2023
The European Union introduced anti-dumping duties on uncoated paper imports from certain Asian countries to protect domestic manufacturers from unfair pricing practices.
March 2023
Expected to increase prices of imported paper in the EU, potentially benefiting local producers but raising costs for consumers.
Recent updates to trade agreements between the US and China have reduced tariffs on specific paper products under HS 4802, facilitating smoother trade flows.
January 2023
Likely to boost Chinese exports to the US, increasing competition for North American producers.
Several countries in Europe and North America have introduced mandatory sustainability certifications for imported paper products to ensure responsible forestry practices.
July 2022
Exporters without certifications may face market access barriers, while certified producers gain competitive advantage.