HS Code:
Kabocha, often referred to as Japanese pumpkin or Japanese squash, falls under the broader category of edible vegetables, specifically under HS Code 0709.93, which covers other vegetables, fresh or chilled, including pumpkins and squashes. Kabocha is a winter squash variety known for its sweet, nutty flavor and dense, starchy texture. It is widely cultivated in regions with temperate climates and is a staple in Asian cuisine, particularly in Japan, where it is used in soups, tempura, and desserts. Global trade in kabocha is influenced by seasonal production, regional demand, and agricultural export capabilities. Major producers export to markets with high demand for specialty vegetables, often facing stringent phytosanitary regulations and quality standards.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map, UN Comtrade Database
$45 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$30 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
17% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
13% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain Asian markets for non-preferential trade partners)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as CPTPP and EU-Japan EPA)
Rising demand for organic kabocha
Increased exports from countries with strong organic certification systems like New Zealand and Japan; higher price premiums for certified organic products
2021-2022
Growth in processed kabocha products
Expansion of frozen and pre-cut kabocha exports targeting convenience food markets in North America and Europe
2020-2022
Climate change affecting production
Unpredictable weather patterns in key producing regions like Mexico have led to supply chain disruptions and price volatility
2019-2022
Japan and South Korea renewed commitments to reduce tariffs on agricultural products, including kabocha, under bilateral trade frameworks.
March 2023
Expected to boost South Korean imports of Japanese kabocha by 15% over the next two years.
Mexico introduced new national standards for organic kabocha production to meet growing demand in the U.S. and Canadian markets.
July 2022
Likely to increase Mexico's market share in North America as consumer preference for organic produce rises.
New Zealand tightened export protocols to comply with stricter EU phytosanitary regulations for kabocha and other squashes.
January 2023
Short-term export delays expected, but long-term benefits include sustained access to high-value EU markets.