HS Code:
The 'Wet' category, while not explicitly tied to a specific HS Code in the query, generally refers to products such as wet wipes, wet tissues, or other moistened personal care or cleaning products often classified under HS Code 3401 (soap and organic surface-active products) or 4818 (toilet paper, tissues, and similar household products). These products are used for personal hygiene, baby care, and household cleaning. The global trade of wet products has seen significant growth due to increasing demand for convenient, on-the-go hygiene solutions, particularly in urban areas and developing economies. Factors such as rising disposable incomes, growing awareness of hygiene, and the impact of health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic have further boosted the market.
Total Trade Volume
USD 5.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & ITC Trade Map
USD 1.1 billion
21.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 850 million
16.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 620 million
11.9% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 480 million
9.2% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 350 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA or in WTO member countries with reduced barriers)
Rising demand for eco-friendly wet products
Increased production of biodegradable and flushable wipes, driving innovation in sustainable materials
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce sales channels
Direct-to-consumer models and subscription services for wet wipes have boosted trade volumes, especially post-COVID
2020-2022
Health and hygiene awareness
Post-pandemic consumer behavior has sustained high demand for disinfectant and personal care wipes
2020-2023
The EU introduced stricter regulations on single-use plastics, including wet wipes, mandating clear labeling for non-flushable products and encouraging biodegradable alternatives.
July 2021
Increased production costs for manufacturers exporting to the EU but also spurred innovation in sustainable materials.
Tariffs on certain personal care products, including wet wipes, were reduced as part of the Phase 1 trade deal, facilitating smoother trade flows between the two largest markets.
January 2020
Boosted export volumes from China to the US, though some tensions remain over intellectual property and quality standards.
The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent port congestions caused delays in the supply of raw materials for wet products, impacting trade timelines and costs.
2020-2022
Temporary price hikes and shifts toward regional suppliers to mitigate risks of global supply chain dependencies.