HS Code:
U.S. note 21(c) to this subchapter generally pertains to specific goods under the Harmonized System (HS) Code framework, which may include agricultural products, processed foods, or other commodities as defined by the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC). These goods are often subject to specific tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) or other trade agreements, particularly under programs like the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The category may encompass products such as dairy, sugar, or other sensitive agricultural items that are monitored for import volumes and tariff application to protect domestic industries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $12.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) and World Trade Organization (WTO) data
$4.2 billion USD
33.6% of total trade
Increasing
$3.8 billion USD
30.4% of total trade
Stable
$2.1 billion USD
16.8% of total trade
Decreasing
$1.5 billion USD
12.0% of total trade
Increasing
$0.9 billion USD
7.2% of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (for over-quota imports of certain dairy products)
Lowest Rate
0% (under specific free trade agreements like USMCA)
Increased demand for organic and specialty products
Higher imports from countries with established organic certification systems like the EU and Canada, driving up trade volume by 8% annually
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable sourcing
Countries like Australia and New Zealand gain market share due to strong sustainability practices, impacting trade agreements and preferences
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions
Reduced imports from certain regions, with a pivot towards North American suppliers under USMCA, affecting overall trade balance
2022
The U.S. revised dairy import quotas under USMCA, increasing access for Canadian dairy products while maintaining over-quota tariffs.
January 2023
Expected to increase Canadian dairy imports by 10%, strengthening bilateral trade but raising concerns among U.S. dairy producers.
A WTO panel ruled on a dispute regarding U.S. sugar import restrictions under note 21(c), urging compliance with agreed TRQs.
October 2022
Potential increase in sugar imports from countries like Mexico, affecting domestic price stability.
The U.S. and EU finalized a sanitary and phytosanitary agreement to streamline certification for agricultural goods under this subchapter.
March 2023
Likely to stabilize EU imports, reducing trade friction and lowering compliance costs for exporters.