HS Code:
Electrothermic sandwich cookers of a kind used for domestic purposes, designed to be used with round bread (HS Code: 8516.79.00), are small kitchen appliances specifically engineered for toasting or grilling sandwiches. These devices typically feature non-stick plates shaped to accommodate round bread slices, ensuring even heating and easy cleaning. They are popular in households worldwide due to their convenience, compact size, and affordability, catering to quick meal preparation needs. This category falls under the broader classification of other electrothermic appliances for domestic use, and trade in this segment reflects consumer demand for practical and time-saving kitchen solutions.
Total Trade Volume
USD 320 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & World Trade Organization (WTO)
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local manufacturing)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for energy-efficient appliances
Manufacturers are innovating to meet consumer preferences for eco-friendly sandwich cookers with lower power consumption, driving market growth in regions with high environmental awareness like Europe.
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce sales channels
Increased online shopping has boosted the accessibility of sandwich cookers, especially in emerging markets, contributing to higher import volumes and competition among brands.
2020-2022
Shift towards multifunctional kitchen appliances
Consumer preference for devices that offer additional features (e.g., grilling or waffle-making) is pressuring standalone sandwich cooker sales, prompting design innovations.
2022-2023
The European Union introduced stricter energy efficiency labeling for small kitchen appliances, including sandwich cookers, to promote sustainability and inform consumer choices.
March 2023
Exporters to the EU must adapt to new compliance requirements, potentially increasing production costs but also creating opportunities for premium, energy-efficient models.
A review of tariff exemptions under the US-China Phase 1 trade deal included discussions on small kitchen appliances, with some duties on Chinese-made sandwich cookers reduced temporarily.
August 2022
This has provided short-term relief for US importers and consumers by lowering costs, though long-term uncertainties remain due to geopolitical tensions.
Rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes in countries like India and Indonesia have led to a spike in demand for affordable kitchen appliances like sandwich cookers.
Q2 2023
Manufacturers are targeting these markets with cost-effective models, increasing export volumes from production hubs like China and South Korea.