HS Code:
This product category covers men's footwear with vulcanized uppers of neoprene, 7 mm in thickness, featuring a polyester knit fleece interior and a rubber-coated exterior. The footwear measures between 20.32 cm and 25.4 cm in height from the base of the inner sole to the top of the upper, with a cemented rubber sole. These are waterproof boots valued at $40 or higher per pair, specifically designed with a slit in the top of the upper collar to attach to fishing waders. Classified under HS Code 6404.19.20, this niche category primarily caters to outdoor and fishing enthusiasts requiring durable, protective, and specialized gear.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$60 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$15 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$10 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
9% ad valorem
Highest Rate
20% (applied by certain countries with protective measures for domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA or EU-Vietnam FTA)
Rising demand for specialized outdoor gear
Increased imports in North America and Europe due to growing interest in fishing and outdoor activities, driving trade volume up by 5% annually since 2019
2022
Shift towards sustainable materials
Manufacturers are exploring eco-friendly neoprene alternatives, potentially increasing production costs but appealing to environmentally conscious consumers
2023
Supply chain diversification
Buyers are sourcing from multiple countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh to mitigate risks from geopolitical tensions and trade disputes involving China
2021-2023
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) extended temporary exclusions on certain Chinese-made footwear under Section 301 tariffs, reducing costs for importers of specialized fishing boots.
March 2023
Expected to maintain high import volumes from China, benefiting US retailers and consumers with lower prices.
The EVFTA, fully implemented in 2023, has reduced tariffs on Vietnamese footwear exports to the EU, making Vietnam a more competitive supplier for fishing wader boots.
August 2023
Increased market share for Vietnamese exporters in the EU, challenging China's dominance.
Canada introduced stricter chemical safety regulations for neoprene-based products, requiring enhanced testing and certification for imported footwear.
January 2023
Potential delays and higher compliance costs for exporters, particularly smaller manufacturers, entering the Canadian market.