HS Code:
This category pertains to self-cleaning litterboxes designed for domestic use, equipped with a self-contained electric motor powered by an external adapter that plugs into a wall socket or electrical outlet. These devices may also include batteries for backup power. The mechanism is typically triggered by a cat entering the litterbox, after which it rakes and/or disperses cat waste into a compartment after a set amount of time. Classified under HS Code 8509.80.50, these products fall under the broader category of electro-mechanical domestic appliances with self-contained electric motors.
Total Trade Volume
USD 150 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, supplemented by industry reports
Average Rate
2.5%
Highest Rate
5% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Rising demand for pet tech products
Increased adoption of self-cleaning litterboxes due to growing pet ownership and consumer preference for convenience, driving market growth by approximately 8% annually.
2021-2023
Innovation in smart features
Integration of IoT features such as app connectivity and health monitoring for pets is boosting consumer interest and creating a premium segment in the market.
2022-2023
Sustainability concerns
Growing emphasis on eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs is influencing product development and consumer purchasing decisions.
2020-2023
The European Union introduced updated safety and energy efficiency standards for electronic pet products, including self-cleaning litterboxes, requiring CE marking and compliance with low-voltage directives.
January 2023
Manufacturers exporting to the EU must adapt to stricter regulations, potentially increasing production costs but ensuring higher safety and quality for consumers.
A partial rollback of tariffs on certain consumer electronics under HS Code 8509.80.50 was negotiated as part of Phase 1 trade talks, reducing the tariff rate from 5% to 2.5% for Chinese exports to the US.
March 2023
This reduction is expected to lower retail prices in the US market, potentially increasing import volumes from China by 10-15% in the next year.
Major manufacturers in the US and Japan unveiled new models with Wi-Fi connectivity and health tracking features at the 2023 Global Pet Expo, targeting tech-savvy pet owners.
April 2023
These innovations are likely to drive premium sales, with projected growth in the high-end segment by 12% over the next two years.