HS Code:
The category of 'Bulbs, tubers, tuberous roots, corms, crowns and rhizomes, in growth or in flower; chicory plants and roots' (HS Code: 0601) includes a variety of plant propagation materials and live plants used primarily in horticulture and agriculture. This category encompasses dormant and active bulbs, tubers, and other root structures that are essential for the cultivation of flowers, vegetables, and ornamental plants, as well as chicory plants and roots used for food production (e.g., as a coffee substitute or in salads). These products are traded globally for both commercial farming and gardening purposes, with significant seasonal demand fluctuations tied to planting cycles.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 1.2 billion
48% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 300 million
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 200 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 150 million
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 100 million
4% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local agriculture)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for organic and sustainable planting materials
Increased trade in certified organic bulbs and tubers, with higher prices but growing market share, especially in Europe and North America
2021-2022
Growth in urban gardening and home landscaping
Boosted retail demand for ornamental bulbs and rhizomes, particularly in developed economies with higher disposable incomes
2020-2022
Climate change affecting production cycles
Shifts in growing seasons and regional production capacities, leading to supply chain disruptions and price volatility
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter phytosanitary requirements for imports of bulbs and tubers to prevent the spread of invasive pests like the potato cyst nematode.
January 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters outside the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant regions while benefiting EU producers.
The Netherlands, the global leader in bulb exports, reported a 10% increase in tulip bulb shipments due to new trade agreements with Asian markets.
March 2023
Strengthened Dutch dominance in the market, with potential price competition for other exporters.
The United States temporarily banned imports of specific rhizomes from regions affected by a fungal outbreak to protect domestic agriculture.
July 2022
Disrupted supply chains for affected exporters, leading to a short-term spike in prices for alternative suppliers.