HS Code:
The Aralia category, often classified under HS Code 0602 (live plants, including their roots, cuttings, and slips; mushroom spawn), encompasses a variety of ornamental plants and shrubs primarily used for landscaping and indoor decoration. Aralia plants, native to regions like Asia and the Americas, are valued for their unique foliage and adaptability to diverse climates. This category includes species such as Japanese Aralia (Fatsia japonica) and Ming Aralia (Polyscias fruticosa). Global trade in this category is driven by demand from the horticulture industry, interior design sectors, and private gardening enthusiasts.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$45 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
13.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local horticulture industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for indoor plants
Increased trade volume as urbanization and remote working trends boost interest in biophilic design and home gardening.
2020-2022
Sustainability focus in horticulture
Shift towards eco-friendly cultivation practices and organic certification, influencing buyer preferences and trade regulations.
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce for plant trade
Online platforms have expanded market access for exporters, especially small-scale growers, while posing challenges for regulatory compliance.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter phytosanitary requirements for imported live plants, including Aralia species, to combat the spread of invasive pests like the Asian longhorn beetle.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volume from non-compliant regions.
A bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on certain live plants, including Aralia, fostering greater market access for Japanese exporters to the US.
January 2023
Boosted trade volume between the two countries, with Japanese Aralia exports to the US increasing by 8% in the first half of 2023.
The Netherlands, a leading exporter, invested in advanced greenhouse technologies to increase production of ornamental plants like Aralia amidst growing global demand.
June 2022
Strengthened the Netherlands' position as the top exporter, potentially increasing competitive pressure on other exporting nations.