Deepened RCEP Cooperation Presents New Opportunities for Wallcovering Trade in Asia-Pacific

With the further implementation and enforcement of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) rules in 2025, the building materials trade in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in decorative surface materials, is benefiting substantially from tangible tariff reductions and improved market access facilitation.

Data from the China Building Materials Federation indicates that in the first quarter of 2025, China’s total export value of wallcoverings and similar products to RCEP member countries is projected to increase by over 18% year-on-year. Exports to ASEAN countries have shown particularly notable growth. This boost is attributed to lowered tariff barriers and the deepened application of regional cumulative rules of origin, fostering closer supply chain collaboration within the region.

Experts highlight that this trend presents a broader stage for Chinese wallcovering manufacturers. Companies can now export finished products at more competitive prices while also optimizing raw material procurement and production layouts across the region. Enterprises with strong design, production, and compliance certification capabilities, such as Hangzhou Kainolin, are poised to seize this opportunity to further consolidate and expand their share in the high-end Asia-Pacific market.