HS Code:
The Women's (635) category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code generally pertains to women's or girls' clothing and apparel, including items such as dresses, skirts, blouses, and other garments not knitted or crocheted. This category is a significant segment of the global textile and apparel industry, driven by fashion trends, seasonal demand, and economic factors. It encompasses a wide range of products tailored for different demographics, styles, and purposes, from casual wear to formal attire.
Total Trade Volume
USD 85.3 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
12.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries for protective measures)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rise of Sustainable Fashion
Increased demand for eco-friendly and ethically produced women's apparel, pushing manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices and materials.
2021-2022
E-commerce Growth
Significant shift towards online shopping for women's clothing, with platforms like Amazon and Shein dominating sales channels.
2020-2022
Fast Fashion Dominance
Continued growth of fast fashion brands like Zara and H&M, leading to shorter product cycles and competitive pricing pressures.
2019-2022
A new phase of tariff reductions was negotiated for apparel categories under HS 635, easing trade tensions and reducing costs for US importers of Chinese women's clothing.
March 2023
Expected to boost trade volume from China by 5-7% in 2023.
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on textile imports, mandating transparency in supply chains and sustainable production methods for women's apparel.
January 2023
May increase production costs for exporters but improve market access for compliant manufacturers.
Bangladesh implemented labor reforms to improve working conditions in the garment sector, addressing international concerns over worker rights in women's apparel production.
November 2022
Positive for long-term trade relations but may lead to short-term cost increases.