Product classification
HS code for Paper napkins: 4818.30
Paper articles, tablecloths and serviettes, of paper, cellulose wadding or fibres.
Classification of paper napkins under HS 4818.30
Paper napkins are classified under HS code 481830, which falls within Chapter 48 of the Harmonized System. This chapter covers paper and paperboard, articles of paper pulp, of paper or of paperboard. Specifically, heading 4818 encompasses toilet paper and similar paper, cellulose wadding, or webs of cellulose fibers of a kind used for household or sanitary purposes, in rolls of a width not exceeding 36 cm, or cut to size or shape. Subheading 481830 is specifically dedicated to tablecloths and serviettes (napkins). The classification is determined by the material composition—primarily paper pulp or cellulose—and the intended end-use as a disposable sanitary or household item. These products are typically folded and may be embossed, printed, or perforated. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the napkins are intended for domestic use or for use in commercial establishments like restaurants and hotels, provided they meet the physical dimensions and material requirements of the heading.
- Covers
- Disposable paper napkins for table use
- Paper serviettes (single or multi-ply)
- Paper tablecloths
- Cocktail napkins made of paper
- Luncheon and dinner napkins of cellulose fibers
- Also under 4818.30
- Dixie Napkins
- Vanity Fair Napkins
- Hoffmaster Paper Tablecloths
- Chinet Classic White Napkins
- Tork Advanced Napkins
Codes often confused with 4818.30
Common mistake. Paper napkins are frequently confused with HS code 481820, which covers handkerchiefs, cleansing tissues, and towels. While the material is similar, 481830 is strictly for table linens. Another common error is attempting to classify them under 480300, which covers the bulk rolls of tissue paper before they are cut and folded into napkins. If the napkins are made of textile materials (like linen or cotton), they must be classified under Chapter 63 (specifically 6302) rather than Chapter 48.
Top exporters and importers of HS 481830 (the code used for paper napkins), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 481830 (the code used for paper napkins) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 19% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 20% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 481830, not only paper napkins.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $313M 19% of world exports
- 2 Germany $278M 17% of world exports
- 3 Italy $152M 9.4% of world exports
World total: $1.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $329M 20% of world imports
- 2 Germany $155M 9.6% of world imports
- 3 France $100M 6.2% of world imports
World total: $1.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for paper napkins
Brazil classifies paper napkins under NCM 4818.30.00: HS 4818.30 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
This product is covered by the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR), requiring operators to exercise due diligence to minimize the risk of placing illegally harvested timber on the EU market.
Questions about paper napkins
What is the HS code for Paper napkins?
The HS code for Paper napkins is 481830 (Paper articles; tablecloths and serviettes, of paper, cellulose wadding or fibres). The primary HS code for paper napkins (serviettes) and paper tablecloths is 481830.
How do I classify Paper napkins for customs?
Paper napkins is classified under HS code 481830 — Paper articles; tablecloths and serviettes, of paper, cellulose wadding or fibres. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does the number of plies affect the HS code?
No, whether a napkin is single-ply, 2-ply, or 3-ply, it remains under 481830 as long as it is made of paper or cellulose fibers and intended for table use.
Which countries are the top exporters of paper napkins (HS 481830)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 481830 (the code used for paper napkins) in UN Comtrade data were China ($313M, 19% of world exports), Germany ($278M) and Italy ($152M). World exports came to about $1.6B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of paper napkins (HS 481830)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 481830 (the code used for paper napkins) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($329M, 20% of world imports), Germany ($155M) and France ($100M). World imports came to about $1.6B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Paper napkins the same in all countries?
The base HS code 481830 for Paper napkins is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for paper napkins in Brazil?
In Brazil, paper napkins (HS 481830) is classified under NCM 4818.30.00.