HS Code:
The category 'With rubber or plastic handles' typically falls under various HS Codes depending on the specific product, such as tools, cutlery, or household items (e.g., HS 8211 for knives or HS 8205 for hand tools). This category includes products where handles are made of rubber or plastic, providing grip and durability. These products are widely used in domestic, industrial, and commercial applications. Global trade in this category is influenced by manufacturing capabilities, raw material availability, and consumer demand for ergonomic and cost-effective designs.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $5.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Reports
$2.1 billion USD
40.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$680 million USD
13.1% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$520 million USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$380 million USD
7.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$310 million USD
6.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.8% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12.5% (imposed by certain developing countries on imports to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA or EU-Japan EPA)
Shift towards sustainable materials
Increasing demand for eco-friendly rubber and recycled plastic handles, driven by consumer preferences and regulatory pressures, is pushing manufacturers to innovate.
2021-2023
Growth in DIY and home improvement markets
Rising interest in home improvement projects, especially post-COVID-19, has boosted demand for tools with rubber or plastic handles in retail markets.
2020-2022
Automation in manufacturing
Adoption of automated production processes in major exporting countries like China and Taiwan has reduced costs, increasing competitiveness in global markets.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced new regulations under the REACH framework, mandating lower levels of hazardous substances in plastic handles, affecting exporters to the EU market.
July 2023
Non-compliant manufacturers face restricted market access, while compliant firms may see increased costs but better market positioning.
A new phase of trade negotiations between the US and China reduced tariffs on certain hand tools with rubber or plastic handles, easing export costs for Chinese manufacturers.
March 2023
This is expected to increase Chinese exports to the US by 8-10% in this category over the next two years.
Major manufacturers in Germany and Japan unveiled new lines of tools with advanced ergonomic rubber handles, targeting professional and industrial users.
September 2022
This has driven a premium segment growth, increasing market share for high-end products in developed markets.