HS Code:
This category includes footwear (other than men's) with outer soles of rubber or plastics and uppers of textile materials (excluding vegetable fibers), featuring open toes or open heels. The uppers must have at least 30% of their external surface area made of sheepskin, including any sheepskin accessories or reinforcements as defined in note 4(a) to chapter 64 of the Harmonized System. The outer soles must have textile materials with the greatest surface area in contact with the ground, though this is not considered under additional U.S. note 5 to chapter 64. Classified under HS subheading 6404.19.37, this product category primarily includes casual and seasonal footwear such as sandals and slippers, often targeted at women and children. This type of footwear is popular for its comfort, breathability, and lightweight design, making it a staple in warm-weather markets and casual fashion.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, ITC Trade Map
Average Rate
9.0%
Highest Rate
37.5% (United States under specific classifications)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Vietnam FTA)
Rising demand for sustainable materials
Increased use of eco-friendly textiles and recycled rubber in production, influencing sourcing and manufacturing costs.
2021-2023
Shift to e-commerce platforms
Growth in online sales channels has expanded market access for smaller exporters, while challenging traditional retail supply chains.
2020-2022
Preference for casual and comfortable footwear
Post-pandemic consumer behavior has boosted demand for open-toe and lightweight designs, benefiting this product category.
2021-2023
The EU-Vietnam FTA, fully implemented in 2023, has reduced tariffs on Vietnamese footwear exports to the EU, increasing Vietnam's competitiveness against China.
August 2023
Expected to shift market share toward Vietnam, with a projected 5-10% increase in export volume over the next two years.
Continued Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, including certain footwear categories, have prompted U.S. importers to diversify sourcing to countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh.
June 2022
Reduction in Chinese market share by approximately 3% in the U.S. market, with gains for other Asian exporters.
New EU regulations on sustainable sourcing and production have imposed stricter compliance requirements for sheepskin and textile materials in footwear.
January 2023
Increased production costs for non-compliant exporters, potentially benefiting producers with established sustainable practices.