I used to think plastic bags were the only game in town. Then I discovered how massive non-woven bag exports have become. Asia leads the charge.
Countries that import the most non-woven bags from Asia include the United States, Japan, South Korea, Germany, and Australia.
The demand for these bags keeps rising. If you're in the packaging business, it's time to understand where and why.
Which country is the biggest producer of non-woven textiles?
China makes more non-woven fabric than any other country. Its factories run non-stop. The scale is massive. Costs are low. Supply is fast.
China is the world's largest producer of non-woven textiles1, supplying a major share of the global demand.
China's Role in the Non-Woven Supply Chain
Most factories I’ve visited in Wenzhou or Guangzhou can produce non-woven materials around the clock. Raw polypropylene is melted, spun into fibers, and pressed into sheets without weaving.
| Country | Annual Production (Approx.) | Market Share |
|---|---|---|
| China | Over 6 million tons | 40%+ |
| USA | 1.2 million tons | 7% |
| India | 900,000 tons | 6% |
| Japan | 800,000 tons | 5% |
China also offers the lowest price-per-unit. For large buyers, this matters. They get stable quality and quick delivery.
How is the market for non-woven bags?
Non-woven bags are booming. They’re used in retail, supermarkets, fashion, and food. Asia ships millions every month. The global market is expanding fast.
The non-woven bag market is growing rapidly due to eco-friendly trends, rising bans on plastic bags, and demand from retail sectors.
A Global Trend Driven by Local Policies
Governments around the world ban plastic bags. They want cleaner cities and oceans. Retailers must switch. Non-woven bags are their top choice.
| Region | Demand Driver | Market Behavior |
|---|---|---|
| North America | Retail and grocery bag bans | High import from China/Vietnam |
| Europe | Eco-regulations, fashion brands | Quality-focused imports |
| Asia-Pacific | Urbanization and retail growth | Rising domestic production |
| Middle East | Event giveaways and retail | Price-sensitive buying |
From my experience, U.S. buyers prioritize certifications and full-color branding. Japanese clients prefer precise sizing and softer textures. Each market has its flavor.
What is the HS code for nonwoven bags?
Every trader needs this code. It’s how customs track shipments. It decides duties and legal requirements. Use it right, avoid delays.
The Harmonized System (HS) code for non-woven bags2 is typically 6305.33, which covers sacks and bags of man-made textile materials.
Why the Right HS Code Matters
Incorrect codes lead to delays, fines, or even rejected shipments. I’ve seen traders lose deals because of this. Always confirm with local customs brokers.
| HS Code | Description | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 6305.33 | Sacks and bags, of man-made textile materials | Non-woven shopping or gift bags |
| 4202.92 | Other containers with outer surface of textile | If printed or laminated heavily |
| 3923.21 | Plastic sacks and bags | Only for plastic film bags |
Each country may classify bags differently based on material or finish. Check with freight forwarders before shipping.
What are the disadvantages of non-woven bags3?
They're not perfect. Some people call them greenwashing. They last long, but don’t decompose. Recyclability varies. Public trust depends on education.
Non-woven bags, though reusable, are not biodegradable and depend on proper disposal to remain eco-friendly.
Unpacking the Sustainability Debate
Non-woven bags use polypropylene. That’s plastic. If thrown away like trash, they pollute. If reused well, they reduce waste. The challe
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Learn about China's dominance in non-woven textile production and its impact on global markets. ↩
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Understand the significance of HS codes in international trade and how they affect shipping and customs. ↩
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Explore the advantages of non-woven bags, including their eco-friendliness and versatility in various industries. ↩
