HS Code:
Chewing tobacco, classified under HS Code 240399, refers to a type of smokeless tobacco product that is chewed or placed in the mouth to release nicotine. It includes products like loose leaf, plug, and twist tobacco, primarily used in regions with cultural traditions of tobacco chewing. This category is part of the broader tobacco product sector and is subject to strict regulations due to health concerns associated with its use. Global trade in chewing tobacco is influenced by cultural practices, health policies, and varying levels of taxation and restrictions across countries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Reports
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
35% ad valorem
Highest Rate
Up to 100% in certain countries (e.g., Australia due to health policies)
Lowest Rate
5% in select free trade zones (e.g., within ASEAN countries)
Rising demand in South Asia
Increased production and export from India and Pakistan due to cultural acceptance and lower regulatory barriers compared to Western markets
2021-2022
Declining use in Western markets
Stricter health regulations and public awareness campaigns have reduced demand in North America and Europe, impacting trade volumes
2020-2022
Shift towards alternative nicotine products
Emergence of nicotine pouches and other smokeless alternatives is reducing traditional chewing tobacco market share in some regions
2022
India revised its tobacco export policies to streamline regulations, providing incentives for processed tobacco products, including chewing tobacco, to boost trade with neighboring countries.
March 2023
Likely to increase India's market share in South Asia, potentially affecting competitors like Pakistan.
The European Union reinforced its ban on smokeless tobacco products, including chewing tobacco, under the Tobacco Products Directive, with stricter enforcement measures.
January 2023
Significant reduction in legal trade to EU countries, pushing some trade into illicit channels.
The US FDA launched a new campaign targeting smokeless tobacco use among youth, accompanied by proposals for higher taxes on chewing tobacco products.
June 2023
Potential decrease in domestic demand, which may reduce import volumes over time.