HS Code:
The Warp Knit category, classified under HS Code 6005, encompasses fabrics made by warp knitting, a method where yarns are formed into loops along the length of the fabric. This category includes a variety of textiles such as tricot, raschel, and other warp-knitted fabrics, often used in apparel, lingerie, sportswear, and industrial applications due to their elasticity, durability, and versatility. Warp knit fabrics are distinct from weft knit fabrics due to their production process, which results in a more stable and less stretchy structure, making them suitable for specific technical and fashion applications.
Total Trade Volume
USD 5.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 2.1 billion
40.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 0.8 billion
15.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 0.6 billion
11.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 0.5 billion
9.6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 0.4 billion
7.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Korea FTA)
Growing demand for technical textiles
Increased use of warp knit fabrics in automotive, medical, and industrial sectors due to their strength and adaptability, driving market growth in specialized applications.
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable materials
Rising preference for eco-friendly and recycled warp knit fabrics as consumers and regulations push for greener textile production, impacting sourcing and production costs.
2020-2023
Automation in production
Adoption of advanced knitting technologies has reduced production costs and improved quality, giving competitive advantage to technologically advanced countries like Germany and South Korea.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on textile production, mandating the use of sustainable materials and transparent supply chains for warp knit fabrics imported into the region.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters but potential long-term benefits for those adopting green practices.
A new phase of the trade agreement between China and the US reduced tariffs on certain textile categories, including warp knit fabrics, to ease tensions in the sector.
January 2023
Boosted Chinese exports to the US market, potentially increasing competition for domestic producers.
South Korean manufacturers unveiled a new line of high-performance warp knit fabrics tailored for sportswear, focusing on moisture-wicking and lightweight properties.
June 2022
Strengthened South Korea's position as a leader in high-value textile exports, particularly in the athletic apparel market.