HS Code:
This category includes men's and women's footwear with outer soles of rubber or plastics and uppers of textile materials, not covering the ankle, valued over $12 per pair, and incorporating a protective toe cap made of materials other than metal. Classified under HS Code 6404.19.90, this type of footwear is often used for casual or protective purposes in various environments, balancing durability with affordability. It is a significant segment in the global footwear market due to its utility in both everyday wear and specific occupational settings.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
12.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by certain countries like Brazil and Argentina on non-preferential imports)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Vietnam FTA or USMCA for qualifying countries)
Shift towards sustainable materials
Increased demand for eco-friendly footwear with recycled rubber soles and organic textile uppers, driving innovation and higher production costs but also premium pricing.
2021-2023
Rise in e-commerce sales
Direct-to-consumer models and online marketplaces have boosted global reach for manufacturers, especially from Vietnam and China, reducing reliance on traditional retail channels.
2020-2022
Relocation of manufacturing bases
Due to rising labor costs in China, production is shifting to countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh, altering trade patterns and benefiting countries with lower production costs.
2019-2023
The European Union initiated a review of anti-dumping duties on certain footwear categories from China and Vietnam, potentially affecting pricing and market access.
March 2023
Possible increase in costs for EU importers if duties are raised, potentially shifting demand to other regions like India or Bangladesh.
Enhanced trade agreements and reduced tariffs under bilateral negotiations have bolstered Vietnam’s footwear exports to the US market.
January 2023
Vietnam's market share in the US for this category has grown, challenging China's dominance and encouraging further investment in Vietnamese manufacturing.
Major global retailers have started requiring sustainability certifications for footwear, pushing manufacturers to adopt greener practices.
June 2022
Smaller producers may face higher compliance costs, while larger firms gain competitive advantage through economies of scale in sustainable production.