HS Code:
This category pertains to women's footwear with outer soles and uppers made of rubber or plastics, excluding vulcanized footwear and waterproof molded or vulcanized bottoms. These are non-ankle-covering, non-protective metal-toe cap shoes, valued over $27 per pair, designed for protection against water, oil, grease, chemicals, or cold/inclement weather. The protection is provided by a laminated textile, and the footwear features openings in the sole or upper to facilitate moisture vapor transport from under the foot. Classified under HS subheading 6402.99.33, this product is niche but significant in markets prioritizing functional and protective casual footwear.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$650 million USD
54.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$250 million USD
20.8% 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
Decreasing
$60 million USD
5.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
12% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by certain countries on non-preferential trade partners)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like CPTPP or EU-Vietnam FTA)
Rising demand for sustainable materials
Increased production costs but higher consumer willingness to pay for eco-friendly footwear; shift towards recycled plastics and biodegradable rubbers.
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce sales channels
Direct-to-consumer models and online marketplaces have boosted export opportunities for manufacturers in developing countries.
2020-2022
Shift in manufacturing bases
Relocation of production from China to Vietnam and Bangladesh due to lower labor costs and favorable trade agreements.
2019-2023
The US extended Section 301 tariffs on Chinese footwear imports, maintaining additional duties of up to 25% due to ongoing trade tensions.
March 2023
Increased costs for US importers, driving sourcing diversification to Vietnam and Indonesia.
The EU introduced stricter regulations under the Green Deal, mandating eco-design and recyclability standards for footwear imports.
January 2023
Higher compliance costs for exporters but potential market advantage for those adopting sustainable practices.
Vietnam's footwear exports to the US benefited from reduced tariffs under bilateral trade frameworks, boosting its market share.
October 2022
Strengthened Vietnam's position as a key supplier, potentially overtaking other competitors in the long term.