HS Code:
The 'Hams and cuts thereof' category, classified under HS Code 0203.12, includes fresh or chilled hams, shoulders, and cuts of swine. This category is a significant segment of the global meat trade, driven by consumer demand for pork products in various cuisines worldwide. It encompasses both bone-in and boneless cuts, often used for direct consumption, processing into cured meats like prosciutto or jamรณn, and other value-added products. Trade in this category is influenced by factors such as production capacity, animal health regulations, and cultural dietary preferences.
Total Trade Volume
USD 8.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 1.8 billion
21.2% of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.5 billion
17.6% of total trade
Stable
USD 1.2 billion
14.1% of total trade
Increasing
USD 900 million
10.6% of total trade
Stable
USD 750 million
8.8% of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
12.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal market or USMCA)
Growing demand for premium and organic pork products
Increased exports from countries like Spain and Italy, known for high-quality cured hams, as consumers prioritize sustainability and animal welfare.
2021-2022
Impact of African Swine Fever (ASF) on supply chains
Significant disruptions in major producing countries like China have led to higher imports from Europe and the US to meet domestic demand.
2019-2022
Shift towards processed and ready-to-eat products
Rising urbanization and busy lifestyles have boosted demand for pre-cut and packaged ham products, influencing trade patterns.
2020-2022
The European Union secured a deal to increase pork exports, including hams, to China following supply shortages due to ASF outbreaks.
March 2023
Expected to boost trade volume for EU countries like Spain and Germany by 15% over the next two years.
As part of broader trade negotiations, the US reduced tariffs on certain EU pork products, including specialty hams, to improve market access.
June 2022
Increased imports of Italian and Spanish hams to the US market, benefiting consumers with more variety.
New cases of ASF in several Asian countries have led to temporary bans on pork imports from affected regions, rerouting trade to unaffected suppliers.
September 2023
European exporters have seen a surge in demand, while some Asian markets face supply constraints.