HS Code:
Lychee (Litchi chinensis) falls under the HS Code 081090, which includes other fresh tropical and subtropical fruits. Lychee is a small, sweet, and juicy fruit native to Southern China, widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. It is highly valued for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits, including high vitamin C content. The global trade of lychee is driven by demand in both fresh and processed forms (canned, dried, or juiced). Major production is concentrated in Asia, with significant export markets in North America, Europe, and other parts of Asia. Seasonal availability and perishability pose challenges to trade, often requiring specialized logistics and cold chain infrastructure.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $500 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map, UN Comtrade Database
$200 million USD
40% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$80 million USD
16% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$60 million USD
12% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$40 million USD
8% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
6% of global trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5-10% ad valorem
Highest Rate
30% (in certain protective markets like India for non-seasonal imports)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as ASEAN-China FTA)
Growing demand for exotic fruits in Western markets
Increased export opportunities for producing countries, especially in North America and Europe, driving investments in cold chain logistics.
2021-2023
Shift towards organic and sustainably sourced lychee
Higher price premiums for certified organic lychee, encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable practices, though certification costs remain a barrier.
2020-2022
Rising competition from processed lychee products
Canned and dried lychee are gaining market share due to longer shelf life, impacting fresh lychee trade in some regions.
2019-2023
Vietnam received approval to export fresh lychee to the United States after meeting stringent phytosanitary requirements, including irradiation treatment for pests.
May 2023
This opens a high-value market for Vietnamese exporters, potentially increasing trade volume by 10-15% over the next few years.
Revised terms under the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA) reduced tariffs on fresh lychee imports to Australia, boosting Chinese exports.
January 2023
Chinese lychee exporters are expected to see a 20% increase in shipments to Australia due to cost competitiveness.
Logistical bottlenecks and port delays in Madagascar have hampered lychee exports during the peak season, affecting supply to European markets.
December 2022
Temporary loss of market share to competitors like Vietnam and Thailand, with potential long-term effects if infrastructure issues persist.