HS Code:
The 'Cell cultures, whether or not modified' category (HS Code: 300290) encompasses a variety of biological materials including human, animal, or microbial cell cultures used primarily in medical research, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries. These cultures are critical for the development of vaccines, therapeutic proteins, and diagnostic tools. The category includes both unmodified and genetically modified cell lines, reflecting their diverse applications in cutting-edge scientific research and industrial production.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-US TTIP provisions)
Rising demand for cell cultures in biopharmaceuticals
Increased trade volume due to growing production of biologics and biosimilars, especially for monoclonal antibodies and vaccine development.
2021-2022
Advancements in gene editing technologies
Boost in trade for genetically modified cell cultures used in CRISPR and other gene therapy research applications.
2020-2022
Increased focus on personalized medicine
Growing imports of specialized human cell lines for tailored therapeutic solutions and precision medicine.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines for the import of genetically modified cell cultures to ensure compliance with biosafety standards.
March 2023
Potential delays in trade flows to EU countries as exporters adapt to new certification requirements.
A bilateral agreement was signed to facilitate the exchange of non-pathogenic cell cultures for research purposes, reducing tariff barriers.
July 2022
Expected increase in trade volume between the two countries, fostering collaborative research.
Post-COVID-19 recovery efforts have led to a spike in demand for cell cultures used in vaccine manufacturing, particularly for mRNA technologies.
January 2022
Significant growth in export markets for countries with advanced biotech capabilities like the US and Germany.