HS Code:
The 'Weighing not more than 200 g/m²' category, often associated with lightweight fabrics or paper products under various HS Codes such as 4802.54 for paper or 5208.11 for cotton fabrics, includes materials typically used in industries like packaging, printing, and textiles. These products are critical for applications requiring low weight and flexibility, such as tissue paper, lightweight clothing fabrics, or specialty papers. This category is characterized by high global demand due to its versatility and widespread use in both consumer and industrial sectors.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $15.3 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
$4.2 billion USD
27.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$2.1 billion USD
13.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.8 billion USD
11.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.5 billion USD
9.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.2 billion USD
7.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
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-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials
Increased production of recycled paper and organic cotton fabrics, driving market shifts toward greener supply chains
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce packaging needs
Higher demand for lightweight packaging materials like tissue paper and kraft paper, boosting trade volumes in this category
2020-2022
Technological advancements in production
Improved manufacturing processes have reduced costs and enhanced product quality, making lightweight materials more competitive
2019-2023
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring all lightweight paper products to meet higher recyclability standards, impacting exporters to the region.
March 2023
Non-compliant exporters face potential market access barriers, while sustainable producers gain a competitive edge.
A revised trade agreement reduced tariffs on lightweight textile fabrics between the US and China, fostering increased bilateral trade in this category.
January 2023
Trade volumes are expected to rise by 10-15% in 2023-2024 as a result of reduced costs for importers.
India announced subsidies for local manufacturers of lightweight fabrics and paper to enhance export competitiveness under the 'Make in India' initiative.
September 2022
Indian exports in this category are projected to grow, potentially challenging established exporters like China.