HS Code:
Subheading 1806.90.18 of the Harmonized System (HS) Code pertains to 'Chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa, in blocks, slabs or bars, filled, not weighing more than 2 kg.' This category includes a variety of chocolate confectionery products that are filled (e.g., with nuts, creams, or other ingredients) and are typically packaged for retail sale. These products are widely consumed globally as snacks, desserts, or gifts, and form a significant segment of the global confectionery market.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $8.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$1.7 billion USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.2 billion USD
14% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$900 million USD
10.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$800 million USD
9.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$650 million USD
7.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Growing demand for premium and artisanal chocolate
Increased exports from countries like Belgium and Switzerland, known for high-quality chocolate, with a shift towards niche markets and higher price points.
2021-2022
Rising health consciousness among consumers
Boost in demand for low-sugar, organic, and vegan chocolate products, influencing product innovation and marketing strategies.
2020-2022
Sustainability and ethical sourcing
Pressure on manufacturers to adopt sustainable cocoa sourcing practices, impacting supply chains and increasing costs for certification.
2019-2022
The EU introduced regulations requiring proof that cocoa products are not linked to deforestation, affecting exporters from West Africa and Latin America supplying raw materials for chocolate production.
June 2023
Potential increase in production costs and trade barriers for non-compliant suppliers, while benefiting certified sustainable producers.
As part of trade negotiations, the US reduced tariffs on certain EU chocolate products, boosting imports from countries like Germany and Belgium.
March 2022
Enhanced market access for EU exporters, potentially increasing competition in the US market.
Fluctuations in global cocoa prices due to climate change and political instability in major cocoa-producing regions like Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana have impacted chocolate production costs.
Throughout 2023
Higher retail prices for chocolate products and potential supply chain disruptions for manufacturers.