HS Code:
The 'Articles for the Blind' category, classified under HS Code 9021.90 (often including specific subcategories for aids and appliances for the visually impaired), encompasses a range of products designed to assist individuals with visual impairments. This includes braille readers, talking books, specialized software, and other assistive devices. These products are critical for enhancing accessibility and independence for the blind and visually impaired, often supported by international agreements to facilitate duty-free trade under humanitarian provisions.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, World Trade Organization (WTO) Reports
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$90 million USD
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
2.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (in certain developing countries with limited exemptions)
Lowest Rate
0% (under WTO agreements and national humanitarian policies)
Increased adoption of digital assistive technologies
Growing demand for braille e-readers and voice-activated software, boosting trade in high-tech categories by 15% annually
2021-2022
Government subsidies and international aid programs
Enhanced accessibility in developing nations, leading to a 10% rise in imports in low-income regions
2020-2022
Rising production costs due to specialized materials
Slight price increases in traditional aids like braille paper products, affecting trade volumes in cost-sensitive markets
2022
Several member countries renewed commitments to waive tariffs on articles for the blind under the Marrakesh Treaty framework, facilitating easier access to assistive technologies.
June 2023
Expected to increase trade volume by 8-10% in the next two years, particularly benefiting exporters like the US and Germany.
A consortium of tech companies in Japan and the UK unveiled low-cost, portable braille displays, targeting emerging markets with high demand.
March 2023
Likely to shift trade patterns, with a projected 20% growth in exports from Japan to South Asia and Africa.
The European Union updated its accessibility directive, mandating member states to prioritize imports of certified assistive devices for the blind.
January 2023
Increased demand for compliant products from major exporters, potentially raising trade barriers for non-certified goods.