HS Code:
The category of ice skates and roller skates, including skating boots with skates attached, as well as parts and accessories thereof (HS Code: 9506.70), encompasses a range of products used for recreational and competitive skating activities. This includes inline skates, traditional roller skates, ice skates for figure skating and hockey, and associated components like blades, wheels, and protective gear. These products are part of the broader sports equipment sector and are traded globally, with demand driven by seasonal sports, fitness trends, and professional skating events.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 450 million
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU trade pacts)
Rising popularity of inline skating as a fitness activity
Increased demand for recreational roller skates and accessories in urban areas, boosting trade volumes by approximately 10% annually
2021-2022
Growth in winter sports participation due to global events like the Winter Olympics
Surging demand for ice skates, particularly in markets like North America and Europe, with a 7% year-on-year increase in imports
2022
Shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly materials in skate production
Manufacturers adopting recycled materials and vegan leather, influencing supply chains and increasing production costs by 5-8%
2022-2023
The European Union introduced updated safety regulations for ice and roller skates, mandating stricter testing for blade durability and wheel stability to reduce injury risks.
June 2023
Exporters to the EU market face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing profit margins by 3-5% for non-compliant manufacturers.
A bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on sports equipment, including skates, from 7.5% to 4% as part of broader trade negotiations.
March 2023
Increased export volumes from China to the US, with an estimated 15% growth in trade for this category in 2023.
Major manufacturers launched smart skates with embedded sensors for performance tracking, targeting professional athletes and tech-savvy consumers.
September 2023
Created a niche high-value market segment, increasing average product prices by 20% in premium categories.