HS Code:
Buckwheat (HS Code: 100810) is a pseudo-cereal grain used primarily for human consumption and animal feed. It is gluten-free, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers and those with gluten intolerances. Buckwheat is cultivated in various regions globally, with significant production in temperate climates. It is often used in products like flour, noodles (soba), and porridge, and is also gaining traction as a superfood due to its nutritional benefits, including high protein and fiber content.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 1.2 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map and UN Comtrade Database
450,000 metric tons
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
300,000 metric tons
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
150,000 metric tons
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
80,000 metric tons
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
60,000 metric tons
5.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain South Asian countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Canada CETA)
Rising demand for gluten-free products
Increased export opportunities for buckwheat-producing countries, especially in North America and Europe, where gluten-free diets are trending.
2021-2023
Shift towards organic buckwheat
Higher prices and premiums for organic-certified buckwheat, benefiting producers in Europe and North America.
2020-2022
Climate change affecting yields
Unpredictable weather patterns in key producing regions like Russia and Ukraine have led to supply volatility, influencing global prices.
2019-2023
The EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement has reduced tariffs on buckwheat, leading to a surge in exports from Poland and other EU countries to Japan, a major consumer of soba noodles.
February 2023
Expected increase in EU buckwheat exports by 10-15% over the next two years.
To ensure domestic food security amid geopolitical tensions, Russia introduced temporary export quotas on buckwheat, affecting global supply chains.
April 2022
Global prices rose by 8% due to reduced supply from the largest exporter.
Increased consumer interest in plant-based and gluten-free diets has led to a boom in buckwheat-based products like pancakes and pasta in the US market.
September 2023
Imports of buckwheat to the US have grown by 12% year-on-year, creating opportunities for exporters.