HS Code:
The Harness and Saddlery or Riding-Bridle Hardware, and Parts Thereof category (HS Code: 4201) encompasses equipment and accessories used for horses and other animals, including saddles, harnesses, bridles, and related hardware. This category includes both finished products and parts used in their manufacture, catering primarily to equestrian sports, agriculture, and recreational activities involving animals. The trade in this category is influenced by the demand for equestrian sports equipment, cultural practices involving horseback riding, and the availability of raw materials like leather and metal for production.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
$250 million USD
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$180 million USD
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$130 million USD
10.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement)
Growing popularity of equestrian sports
Increased demand for high-quality saddlery and harness products in regions like Europe and North America, driving exports from manufacturing hubs like India and China.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable materials
Rising consumer preference for eco-friendly and cruelty-free materials (e.g., synthetic leather) is pushing manufacturers to innovate, impacting traditional leather-based exports.
2022
Digital marketplaces for equestrian gear
E-commerce platforms have expanded market access for small and medium-sized enterprises, increasing trade volumes and competition among exporters.
2020-2022
The European Union introduced updated regulations requiring all imported saddlery and harness products to meet enhanced safety and durability standards, including rigorous testing for hardware components.
March 2023
Exporters from countries like India and China may face increased compliance costs, potentially reducing competitiveness in the short term.
A recent amendment to trade agreements between the US and China reduced tariffs on certain equestrian hardware products, facilitating smoother trade flows.
January 2023
This development is expected to boost Chinese exports to the US market, potentially affecting market shares of other exporters like India.
Indian manufacturers have started investing in synthetic saddlery production to cater to the growing demand for vegan and sustainable equestrian products in Western markets.
July 2023
This shift could position India as a leader in the sustainable equestrian gear market, enhancing its export potential.