HS Code:
Butterhead lettuce, also known as Boston or Bibb lettuce, falls under the broader category of fresh or chilled lettuce (HS Code: 0705.11). It is characterized by its soft, tender leaves and mild flavor, making it a popular choice for salads and garnishes worldwide. This category of lettuce is cultivated in temperate climates and is a significant part of the global vegetable trade, driven by demand for fresh produce in both developed and emerging markets. Trade in butterhead lettuce is influenced by seasonal production, climate conditions, and consumer preferences for organic and locally sourced products.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 1.2 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
350,000 metric tons
29% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
300,000 metric tons
25% of total trade of total trade
Stable
200,000 metric tons
17% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
150,000 metric tons
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
100,000 metric tons
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local agriculture)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade and USMCA)
Rising demand for organic butterhead lettuce
Increased production costs but higher profit margins for exporters meeting organic certification standards, particularly in EU and North American markets
2021-2022
Growth in greenhouse and hydroponic farming
Year-round production capabilities are boosting export potential for countries like the Netherlands and the US, reducing dependency on seasonal cycles
2020-2022
Shift towards local sourcing in some regions
Reduced import volumes in countries promoting 'farm-to-table' initiatives, impacting traditional exporters like Spain
2022
The European Union introduced stricter phytosanitary controls for imported lettuce to prevent the spread of pests like lettuce aphids, requiring additional certifications from exporters.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for non-EU exporters, potentially reducing trade volumes from countries unable to meet new standards
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement has facilitated tariff-free trade of butterhead lettuce among member countries, strengthening regional supply chains.
July 2022
Enhanced market access for US and Mexican producers, increasing competition for European exporters in the North American market
Spain, a leading exporter, has invested in organic butterhead lettuce farming to cater to growing demand in Northern Europe.
January 2023
Likely to solidify Spain's position as the top exporter while attracting premium pricing in organic-focused markets