HS Code:
Bay leaves, classified under HS Code 091099 (spices, other than pepper, cinnamon, and cloves), are aromatic leaves primarily derived from the laurel tree (Laurus nobilis). They are widely used in culinary applications for flavoring dishes across Mediterranean, Indian, and other global cuisines. The trade of bay leaves involves both fresh and dried forms, with dried leaves being the most commonly traded due to their longer shelf life. The global market for bay leaves is influenced by agricultural production, climatic conditions, and demand in the food processing and retail sectors.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map and UN Comtrade Database
$15 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$8 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$3 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5-10% ad valorem
Highest Rate
30% (in certain developing markets with protective agricultural policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Turkey Customs Union for specific exporters)
Rising demand for organic bay leaves
Increased export opportunities for countries with organic certification capabilities, such as Turkey and India, with a price premium of 20-30% over conventional products.
2021-2022
Growth in processed food industry
Higher demand for bay leaves as a flavoring agent in ready-to-eat meals and spice blends, particularly in North America and Europe.
2020-2022
Climate change affecting production
Erratic weather patterns in key producing regions like the Mediterranean have led to supply fluctuations, impacting prices and trade volumes.
2019-2022
Turkey has increased its organic bay leaf production capacity with support from government subsidies, targeting EU markets with high demand for organic spices.
March 2023
Expected to boost Turkey's market share by 5-7% in the next two years.
The European Union introduced stricter phytosanitary requirements for imported spices, including bay leaves, to prevent the spread of pests.
January 2023
Smaller exporters may face compliance challenges, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant countries.
The Indian government launched a program to support bay leaf cultivation in the northeastern states, aiming to increase export competitiveness.
October 2022
Could position India as a stronger competitor in the global market over the next 3-5 years.