HS Code:
Jojoba oil and its fractions (HS Code: 1515.90) are derived from the seeds of the jojoba plant (Simmondsia chinensis), native to arid regions of North America. Unlike traditional vegetable oils, jojoba oil is a liquid wax ester, closely resembling human sebum, making it highly valued in the cosmetics and personal care industries for moisturizers, hair care products, and skincare formulations. It is also used in industrial applications as a lubricant and in pharmaceuticals. The oil is often traded in crude, refined, or fractionated forms, with demand driven by the growing preference for natural and sustainable ingredients in consumer products.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map and UN Comtrade Database
$45 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
17% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$15 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU trade deals)
Rising demand for natural cosmetics
Increased imports of jojoba oil in Europe and North America due to consumer preference for sustainable and organic skincare products
2021-2023
Expansion of cultivation in South America
Argentina and Peru have emerged as significant exporters, reducing dependency on traditional suppliers like the US and Israel
2020-2022
Industrial application growth
Growing use in bio-lubricants and eco-friendly industrial products has diversified demand beyond cosmetics
2019-2023
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has reduced tariffs on jojoba oil trade between member countries, boosting exports from Mexico to the US.
July 2022
Increased trade volume by approximately 8% between Mexico and the US in 2022.
The European Union updated its organic certification requirements for imported jojoba oil, mandating stricter traceability and sustainability criteria.
January 2023
Smaller exporters face compliance costs, potentially consolidating market share among larger producers.
The Argentine government introduced subsidies and technical support for jojoba farmers to meet rising global demand.
March 2022
Argentinaโs export volume grew by 12% in 2022, positioning it as a key player in the market.