HS Code:
The 'Cut, ground or pulverized' category, often classified under specific HS codes such as 1211.90 (plants and parts of plants used in perfumery, pharmacy, or for insecticidal, fungicidal or similar purposes, cut, crushed or powdered), encompasses a range of processed botanical and mineral materials. These products are typically used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food processing, and industrial applications. The category includes items like ground spices, crushed herbs, pulverized minerals, and other processed natural materials. Global trade in this category is driven by demand for raw materials in manufacturing and consumer goods, with significant variations based on regional agricultural and industrial capabilities.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$280 million USD
23.3% 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
Increasing
Average Rate
5.8% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local processing industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-USMCA or ASEAN)
Growing demand for organic and sustainably sourced materials
Increased trade from countries with strong organic certification systems, such as India and Brazil, while putting pressure on non-compliant exporters
2021-2022
Rising use of pulverized materials in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals
Boosted exports from countries with advanced processing capabilities like the United States and Germany
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions and climate change
Affected consistent supply from key exporters, leading to price volatility and shifts in trade routes
2022
The European Union introduced stricter phytosanitary and labeling requirements for cut and ground botanical products to ensure consumer safety and traceability.
January 2023
Exporters to the EU, particularly from Asia and Africa, face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing trade volumes in the short term.
A revised trade agreement between the US and China reduced tariffs on certain pulverized mineral products, facilitating smoother trade flows.
March 2023
Expected to increase Chinese exports to the US by 10-15% in this category over the next two years.
India launched a new policy providing subsidies and certifications to organic ground spice exporters to capture a larger share of the global market.
July 2022
Strengthened Indiaโs position as the leading exporter, with a projected 20% growth in trade volume by 2024.