HS Code:
The category 'Containing 15 percent or more by weight of down and waterfowl plumage and of which down comprises 35 percent or more by weight; containing 10 percent or more by weight of down' (HS Code: 9404.90.10) pertains to bedding articles and similar products, such as mattresses, quilts, eiderdowns, cushions, and pillows, that are filled with a significant proportion of down and waterfowl plumage. These products are valued for their insulation properties, lightweight nature, and comfort, making them popular in colder climates and luxury markets. This category falls under Chapter 94 of the Harmonized System, which covers furniture, bedding, and related items. Global trade in this category is driven by demand for high-quality bedding products, with production often concentrated in regions with access to waterfowl resources and advanced textile industries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% 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
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable and ethically sourced down
Increased certification requirements and higher production costs, but also access to premium markets willing to pay more for cruelty-free products
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce for bedding products
Expanded market reach for exporters, especially smaller manufacturers, but also increased competition and pressure on pricing
2020-2022
Shift towards synthetic alternatives
Potential reduction in demand for natural down products due to cost and ethical concerns, though high-end markets remain loyal to natural materials
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines on the ethical sourcing of down and feathers, requiring traceability and certification to prevent animal cruelty.
January 2023
Exporters to the EU must adapt to new compliance costs, potentially benefiting countries with established ethical standards like Hungary and Poland.
A recent phase of the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain bedding products, including down-filled items, to promote trade balance.
March 2022
Boosted Chinese exports to the US, reinforcing China's dominance in this category, though long-term effects depend on geopolitical stability.
New technologies for cleaning and processing down to meet sanitary standards have been adopted by major producers, improving product quality and safety.
July 2022
Enhanced competitiveness of adopting countries like Germany and China, potentially raising global standards and costs for non-adopters.