HS Code:
The Horses category, classified under HS Code 0101, includes live horses, asses, mules, and hinnies. This category primarily covers the trade of live animals for breeding, racing, working, and other purposes. Horses are traded globally for equestrian sports, agricultural work, and as part of cultural or recreational activities. The trade is influenced by factors such as breed quality, demand for specific types (e.g., thoroughbreds for racing), and regional agricultural needs. Trade patterns are also affected by health regulations, quarantine requirements, and international agreements on animal welfare.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 650 million
26% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 400 million
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 300 million
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 250 million
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 200 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic markets)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-UK or USMCA)
Rising demand for thoroughbreds in Asia
Increased exports from traditional breeding countries like Ireland and the US to emerging markets in China and the Middle East.
2021-2022
Stricter animal welfare regulations
Higher compliance costs for exporters due to enhanced transport and quarantine standards, potentially reducing trade volumes in some regions.
2020-2022
Growth in equestrian sports globally
Boosted demand for high-quality horses for competitive events, particularly in Europe and North America.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines on the transport of live horses, focusing on reducing stress and ensuring welfare during long journeys.
January 2023
Increased costs for exporters but improved horse welfare standards, potentially enhancing market access to EU countries.
An outbreak of equine infectious anemia led to temporary export bans from affected countries, disrupting trade flows to North America and Europe.
March 2022
Short-term reduction in supply from South American countries, with increased demand for horses from alternative regions like Australia.
A bilateral agreement eased restrictions on horse exports from the US to China, targeting the growing demand for racing and recreational horses.
October 2021
Significant boost in US exports to China, with trade volume increasing by 15% in 2022.