HS Code:
The 'In airtight containers of glass or metal' category, often classified under various HS Codes depending on the specific product (e.g., HS 2005 for preserved fruits or vegetables, HS 1604 for prepared fish, etc.), encompasses food products and beverages packaged in airtight glass jars or metal cans to ensure long shelf life. This category includes items like canned vegetables, fruits, soups, meats, and fish, as well as beverages like beer or soda in cans. These products are essential in global food supply chains due to their durability, convenience, and ability to preserve nutritional value without refrigeration. The trade of these goods is influenced by consumer demand for ready-to-eat foods, seasonal availability of raw materials, and regional production capabilities.
Total Trade Volume
USD 50 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & World Trade Organization (WTO)
USD 8.5 billion
17% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 7.2 billion
14.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 5.1 billion
10.2% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 4.8 billion
9.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 3.9 billion
7.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA or ASEAN)
Rising demand for sustainable packaging
Increased use of recyclable metal cans and glass jars, boosting trade in eco-friendly packaged goods; slight cost increase for producers adopting green practices
2021-2023
Growth in ready-to-eat and convenience foods
Higher export volumes from countries with advanced food processing industries like the US and Thailand, driven by urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions
Temporary trade declines in regions affected by conflicts or sanctions, with shifts in supply chains favoring politically stable exporters
2022
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring detailed traceability and reduced preservative limits for canned goods, impacting exporters from non-EU countries.
June 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters; potential delays in shipments to EU markets
A partial reduction in tariffs on canned seafood and vegetables was agreed upon, facilitating smoother trade flows between the two largest players in this category.
March 2023
Boosted trade volumes by approximately 5% between the US and China; reduced prices for consumers
Thailand invested in new food processing and canning facilities to meet growing global demand for canned tropical fruits and seafood.
September 2022
Strengthened Thailandโs position as a leading exporter; increased competition for other Asian exporters