HS Code:
The category 'Cubes and the like, the largest surface area of which is capable of being enclosed in a square the side of which is 30 cm or less' typically falls under HS Code 9503.00, which includes toys, games, and sports requisites. This specific subcategory often refers to small cubic or similarly shaped toys, puzzles (like Rubik's Cubes), or educational items designed for children or recreational use. These products are generally lightweight, portable, and made from materials like plastic, wood, or metal. They are widely traded globally due to their popularity across various age groups and their role in cognitive development and entertainment.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) statistics
$650 million USD
54.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$70 million USD
5.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$50 million USD
4.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic toy industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for educational toys
Increased trade volume as parents and educators prioritize cognitive development tools like puzzles and cubes, driving exports from manufacturing hubs like China and Vietnam.
2021-2022
Shift towards eco-friendly materials
Growing preference for sustainable and non-toxic materials (e.g., wooden or biodegradable plastic cubes) is influencing production and trade, with higher costs impacting pricing.
2020-2022
E-commerce boom
Online retail platforms have boosted global accessibility to these products, increasing cross-border trade and reducing reliance on traditional retail channels.
2019-2022
The European Union updated its Toy Safety Directive, imposing stricter limits on chemical content in toys like cubes, requiring manufacturers to adapt production processes.
July 2023
Potential increase in production costs for exporters to the EU, with smaller manufacturers possibly facing market entry barriers.
As part of ongoing trade negotiations, tariffs on certain toy categories, including small cubes and puzzles, were reduced, facilitating smoother trade between the two countries.
January 2023
Expected to boost Chinese exports to the US, maintaining China's dominance in this category.
Due to rising labor costs in China and trade tensions, many toy manufacturers have shifted production to Vietnam, increasing its share in global trade for this category.
March 2023
Diversification of supply chains, reducing reliance on a single country and potentially stabilizing prices for importers.