HS Code:
The 'Cut, sliced or otherwise reduced in size' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code typically refers to products such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, or other food items that have been processed by cutting, slicing, or reducing in size for packaging, preservation, or direct consumption. This category is significant in global trade due to the high demand for ready-to-eat and processed food products in developed and emerging markets. It includes both fresh and frozen goods, often subject to stringent quality and safety regulations.
Total Trade Volume
USD 25.6 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 5.2 billion
20.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 3.8 billion
14.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 2.9 billion
11.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.1 billion
8.2% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.7 billion
6.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain countries on specific processed meat products)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for ready-to-eat products
Increased exports of pre-cut fruits and vegetables, particularly to urban markets in developed countries
2021-2022
Growth in frozen processed foods
Significant growth in trade volume for frozen sliced meat and seafood due to longer shelf life and global supply chain improvements
2020-2022
Sustainability and organic preferences
Shift towards sustainably sourced and organic cut products, influencing trade policies and consumer preferences
2022
The European Union introduced new food safety standards for imported cut and sliced products, focusing on traceability and pesticide residue limits.
March 2023
Potential increase in compliance costs for exporters, especially from developing countries, but ensures higher consumer trust in product safety.
Under the USMCA, tariffs on certain cut agricultural products between the US and Mexico were reduced to 0%, boosting bilateral trade.
January 2023
Increased export opportunities for Mexican producers of sliced fruits and vegetables to the US market.
China invested heavily in cold chain logistics to support the import and export of frozen cut products, enhancing trade capacity.
October 2022
Improved trade efficiency and reduced spoilage rates, leading to a surge in trade volume for frozen sliced goods.