HS Code:
Black pepper, classified under HS Code 090411 (pepper of the genus Piper, neither crushed nor ground) and 090412 (pepper of the genus Piper, crushed or ground), is one of the most widely traded spices globally. Known as the 'king of spices,' it is used in culinary applications, traditional medicine, and food preservation. Black pepper is primarily cultivated in tropical regions, with major production centered in countries with favorable climates such as Vietnam, India, and Brazil. The trade of black pepper is influenced by factors such as weather conditions, geopolitical stability in producing regions, and global demand for spices in food processing and retail sectors.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 750,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC), UN Comtrade Database
260,000 metric tons
34.7% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
180,000 metric tons
24.0% of global trade of total trade
Stable
90,000 metric tons
12.0% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
80,000 metric tons
10.7% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
30,000 metric tons
4.0% of global trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5-10% ad valorem
Highest Rate
Up to 30% in certain markets (e.g., protective tariffs in some African and Middle Eastern countries)
Lowest Rate
0-2% under free trade agreements (e.g., EU-Vietnam FTA, ASEAN agreements)
Rising demand for organic black pepper
Increased exports from countries like India and Sri Lanka, which focus on organic certification; higher price premiums for certified products
2021-2023
Supply chain disruptions due to climate change
Erratic weather in key producing regions like Vietnam and Indonesia has led to fluctuating supply and price volatility
2020-2022
Growth in processed pepper products
Higher demand for ground pepper and pepper-based seasonings has boosted value-added exports, particularly from India and Vietnam
2019-2023
The EVFTA, implemented in 2020, has reduced tariffs on Vietnamese black pepper exports to the EU, making Vietnam more competitive in one of the largest spice markets.
August 2020
Increased market share for Vietnam in the EU, with a reported 15% rise in exports to the region in 2022.
India has been promoting specific varieties of black pepper, such as Malabar pepper, with Geographical Indication (GI) tags to enhance brand value and protect against imitation.
March 2022
Potential for higher export prices and niche market development, though limited by production volumes.
Unpredictable weather patterns and flooding in key pepper-growing regions of Indonesia have led to a decline in output, affecting global supply chains.
July 2023
Reduced supply from Indonesia has contributed to a 10% rise in global black pepper prices in mid-2023.