HS Code:
The Frozen category, often associated with HS Code Chapter 02 (Meat and Edible Meat Offal) and Chapter 03 (Fish and Crustaceans), includes a wide range of products such as frozen meat, seafood, vegetables, fruits, and prepared foods. These products are preserved through freezing to maintain quality and extend shelf life, making them a critical component of global food supply chains. The category is driven by demand for convenience foods, seasonal availability, and the growth of cold chain logistics. Key factors influencing trade include food safety regulations, consumer preferences for healthy and sustainable products, and advancements in freezing technology.
Total Trade Volume
USD 150 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, World Trade Organization (WTO)
USD 25 billion
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 18 billion
12.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 12 billion
8.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 10 billion
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 8 billion
5.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries on frozen meat to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-USMCA for specific frozen products)
Rising demand for frozen ready-to-eat meals
Driven by urbanization and busy lifestyles, particularly in North America and Europe, leading to a surge in trade of frozen prepared foods.
2021-2023
Growth of sustainable and plant-based frozen products
Increasing consumer awareness of environmental and health issues has boosted trade in frozen plant-based meat alternatives and organic vegetables.
2020-2023
Expansion of cold chain infrastructure in developing regions
Improved logistics in Asia and Africa are facilitating higher export volumes of frozen goods from these regions to global markets.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on antibiotic residues in frozen seafood imports, affecting exporters from Southeast Asia.
March 2023
Potential short-term trade disruptions for non-compliant exporters, but long-term improvement in product safety and consumer trust.
A bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on frozen poultry exports from the US to China, reopening a key market for American producers.
January 2023
Expected increase in US poultry exports by 10-15% over the next two years, boosting trade volume.
India announced a $1.5 billion investment in cold chain infrastructure to support exports of frozen fruits and vegetables.
July 2022
Likely to position India as a significant player in the global frozen food market within the next 5 years.