HS Code:
Men's work footwear with outer soles and uppers of rubber or plastics, covering the ankle and featuring oil-resistant and slip-resistant outer soles (HS Code 6402.91.40), is a specialized category of protective footwear designed for industrial and occupational use. These products are essential in environments such as construction, manufacturing, and logistics, where safety and durability are paramount. The footwear is engineered to provide protection against workplace hazards like slippery surfaces and chemical spills, adhering to specific safety standards in various regions.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$120 million USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA or EU-Vietnam FTA)
Rising demand for sustainable materials
Manufacturers are increasingly using recycled rubber and plastics to meet environmental regulations and consumer preferences, driving up production costs but also opening niche markets.
2021-2023
Growth in e-commerce distribution
Online platforms have expanded market access for smaller producers, while also increasing competition and price transparency for buyers.
2020-2022
Shift in production to Southeast Asia
Due to rising labor costs in China, countries like Vietnam and Cambodia are becoming key manufacturing hubs, benefiting from lower costs and favorable trade agreements.
2019-2023
The European Union extended anti-dumping duties on certain categories of footwear, including protective work boots from China, to protect domestic producers.
March 2023
This has increased costs for importers in the EU, potentially shifting sourcing to other countries like Vietnam or India.
Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, tariffs on qualifying footwear between member countries have been reduced or eliminated, boosting regional trade.
July 2022
This has strengthened the position of U.S. and Mexican manufacturers in the North American market, though competition from Asia remains strong.
Countries like Australia and Japan have introduced stricter safety standards for work footwear, requiring enhanced testing for oil and slip resistance.
January 2023
Exporters must adapt to these regulations, potentially increasing production costs but also improving product quality and market trust.