HS Code:
The 'If entered at any other time' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code typically refers to products or goods that are imported or exported outside of specified seasonal or time-based restrictions outlined in trade agreements or tariff schedules. This category often applies to agricultural products, perishable goods, or items with time-sensitive demand, where tariffs or quotas may vary based on the time of entry. It ensures flexibility in global trade by accommodating off-season or unscheduled shipments, though often at different duty rates compared to peak or designated periods. This category is critical for maintaining supply chain continuity and addressing market demands outside standard windows.
Total Trade Volume
USD 12.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
World Trade Organization (WTO) and United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 3.2 billion
25.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.8 billion
22.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.9 billion
15.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.1 billion
8.8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
USD 0.9 billion
7.2% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing nations to protect local markets)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for least developed countries)
Increased demand for off-season agricultural imports
Higher trade volumes in northern hemisphere countries during winter months, boosting trade under this category
2021-2022
Adoption of digital customs clearance for time-sensitive goods
Reduced delays and costs for shipments entered at non-standard times, encouraging more trade activity
2020-2022
Climate change affecting seasonal patterns
Shifting harvest times and growing seasons have led to more frequent use of 'any other time' provisions for agricultural goods
2019-2022
The European Union revised its tariff rate quotas for agricultural products under the 'If entered at any other time' category, increasing duty rates for certain off-season fruits and vegetables to protect local farmers.
March 2023
Potential reduction in imports from non-EU countries during off-peak periods, affecting exporters like Brazil and South Africa.
As part of Phase One trade deal implementation, the US reduced tariffs on select Chinese goods under this category, promoting year-round trade of specific agricultural products.
January 2023
Increased trade volume between the two nations, particularly for soybeans and pork products outside standard seasons.
The World Trade Organization initiated talks to standardize rules for 'If entered at any other time' classifications to reduce disputes over seasonal tariffs and quotas.
June 2023
Potential for more predictable and transparent trade policies, benefiting exporters and importers globally.