HS Code:
This category, often classified under HS Code 9023.00 (Instruments, apparatus, and models designed for demonstrational purposes, such as in education or exhibitions, unsuitable for other uses), includes a wide range of educational materials specifically designed for classroom instruction of children. Products encompass letters, numbers, symbols, arithmetical materials, printed matter, blocks, geometrical figures, globes, musical learning tools, models, puzzles, games, flags, dressing frames, dummy clocks, and various containers or holders for storage. These items are fabricated to specification for educational purposes, often in sets, to facilitate learning through interactive and hands-on methods. This category plays a critical role in early childhood education globally, supporting the development of cognitive, motor, and social skills.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Reports
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for Least Developed Countries under GSP schemes)
Rising demand for STEM-focused educational tools
Increased production of geometrical figures, blocks, and science models to support science, technology, engineering, and math learning, driving trade growth in developed and emerging markets.
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable materials
Manufacturers are increasingly using eco-friendly and recyclable materials for puzzles, blocks, and containers, aligning with global sustainability goals and influencing buyer preferences.
2020-2023
Digital integration in educational tools
Growing incorporation of augmented reality (AR) and digital components in traditional educational materials like globes and puzzles, slightly reducing trade volume of purely physical products.
2022-2023
The European Union updated its Toy Safety Directive to include stricter guidelines for educational materials used by children, mandating enhanced testing for chemical content and durability.
July 2023
Exporters to the EU must adapt manufacturing processes to comply, potentially increasing production costs but ensuring higher safety standards and market trust.
A bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on certain educational materials, including classroom instructional sets, to promote access to affordable learning tools.
March 2023
Boosted exports from China to the US, contributing to a 10% increase in trade volume for this category between the two countries.
UNESCO and World Bank launched a funding program to supply educational materials to low-income countries, focusing on arithmetical materials and geographical globes.
September 2022
Increased demand in African and South Asian markets, creating new export opportunities for major producers like China and India.