HS Code:
The category under HS Code 4806 includes vegetable parchment, greaseproof papers, tracing papers, glassine, and other glazed transparent or translucent papers, available in rolls or sheets. These products are primarily used in packaging (especially for food products due to their greaseproof and moisture-resistant properties), baking, art, and technical drawing applications. Vegetable parchment and greaseproof papers are widely utilized in the food industry for wrapping and baking purposes, while tracing papers are essential in architectural and engineering designs. Glassine, known for its smooth and glossy surface, is often used for protective packaging of delicate items. This category plays a niche but critical role in various industries due to the specialized nature of these papers.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 250 million
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 180 million
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 120 million
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 90 million
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions
Increased preference for biodegradable and recyclable papers like vegetable parchment and glassine in food packaging, driving market growth
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce and packaged food industries
Higher demand for protective and greaseproof packaging materials, boosting trade volumes globally
2020-2022
Digitalization impacting tracing paper demand
Decline in traditional tracing paper usage due to digital design tools, though niche markets in art and education persist
2019-2023
The European Union has introduced stricter regulations under the Green Deal to promote sustainable packaging, encouraging the use of recyclable and biodegradable papers like vegetable parchment and glassine.
March 2023
Increased production and trade of eco-friendly papers within and to the EU market, with potential cost increases for non-compliant suppliers.
A new phase of trade agreements between the US and China has reduced tariffs on certain paper products, including greaseproof papers, to stabilize supply chains.
January 2023
Enhanced export opportunities for Chinese manufacturers to the US, potentially increasing competition for domestic US producers.
Major manufacturers in Germany and France have developed advanced greaseproof papers with enhanced barrier properties for food safety, meeting stringent global standards.
September 2022
Strengthened market position for European exporters, likely increasing their share in global trade for food packaging materials.