HS Code:
Noninflatable hollow balls not over 19 cm in diameter, classified under HS Code 9506.69, encompass a range of sports and recreational balls such as those used in table tennis, billiards, and certain children's games. These products are typically made from materials like plastic, celluloid, or rubber, and are distinct from inflatable balls due to their solid or hollow non-inflatable structure. This category is a niche but significant segment of the sporting goods market, often driven by demand in recreational and professional sports sectors.
Total Trade Volume
USD 250 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 120 million
48% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 40 million
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 25 million
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 20 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 15 million
6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand for eco-friendly materials
Manufacturers are shifting towards sustainable and recyclable materials for hollow balls, driven by consumer preferences and regulatory pressures, potentially increasing production costs but opening new market segments.
2021-2022
Rise in table tennis popularity post-pandemic
Increased recreational and competitive interest in table tennis, especially in Asia and Europe, has boosted demand for high-quality noninflatable balls, leading to a surge in exports from major producers like China.
2020-2022
Technological advancements in manufacturing
Innovations in precision molding and material durability have improved product quality, giving competitive edges to countries with advanced manufacturing capabilities like Japan and Germany.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced updated safety standards for sports equipment, including noninflatable hollow balls, mandating stricter testing for chemical composition and durability.
March 2023
Exporters to the EU market, particularly from Asia, may face higher compliance costs, potentially affecting trade volumes in the short term.
A revised trade agreement between the US and China reduced tariffs on certain recreational goods, including noninflatable hollow balls, from 7% to 4%.
January 2023
This reduction is expected to increase Chinese exports to the US, further solidifying China's dominance in this category.
A leading Chinese manufacturer announced a shift to 100% recyclable materials for their hollow ball production by 2025, aligning with global sustainability trends.
June 2022
This move could set a new industry standard, pressuring competitors to adopt similar practices and potentially reshaping market dynamics.