HS Code:
The Hand-cast string-drawn category, typically classified under specific HS Codes related to musical instruments or traditional crafts (e.g., HS Code 9202 for string musical instruments), includes handcrafted items such as bows for violins, violas, cellos, and other string instruments that are drawn by hand or cast using traditional techniques. These products are often associated with artisanal craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and niche markets in the music industry. They are traded globally, with significant demand in countries with strong classical music traditions or manufacturing hubs for musical instruments.
Total Trade Volume
USD 150 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 45 million
30% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 30 million
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 25 million
17% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 20 million
13% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 15 million
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local craftsmanship)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like the EU Single Market or USMCA)
Growing demand for sustainable materials
Increased use of alternative woods and synthetic materials for bows due to restrictions on traditional materials like Pernambuco, driving innovation but raising costs for manufacturers.
2021-2022
Rise in online sales and direct-to-consumer models
Artisans and small-scale manufacturers are bypassing traditional distributors, increasing market access but creating pricing pressures.
2020-2022
Shift toward mass production in Asia
Lower-cost production in countries like China is challenging European dominance, though quality concerns persist for high-end markets.
2019-2022
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) imposed stricter regulations on the trade of Pernambuco wood, a primary material for high-quality bows, requiring detailed documentation and permits.
November 2022
Increased production costs and delays in supply chains for manufacturers reliant on traditional materials, pushing innovation in alternative materials.
The European Union updated its regulations on the import and export of cultural goods, including handcrafted musical instrument components, to prevent illicit trade and protect heritage items.
January 2023
Additional compliance costs for exporters and importers, potentially reducing trade volumes in the short term but enhancing long-term market transparency.
The Phase 1 trade agreement between the US and China included provisions to reduce tariffs on certain musical instrument components, benefiting the hand-cast string-drawn category.
February 2020
Boosted exports from China to the US, increasing competition for domestic producers but lowering costs for consumers.