HS Code:
The 'Not Filled' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code refers to products or commodities that have not been specifically classified under a defined HS code or where data is incomplete or unspecified in trade documentation. This category often includes miscellaneous or unclassified goods that do not fit into standard product categories. Due to its ambiguous nature, trade in this category can represent a wide range of products, often requiring further investigation to determine the exact nature of goods being traded. It is commonly used as a placeholder in trade statistics when specific details are unavailable.
Total Trade Volume
USD 15 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements)
Increase in unclassified trade due to e-commerce
Growth in small-scale, miscellaneous shipments has led to higher reporting under 'Not Filled' categories as specific HS codes are often not assigned.
2021-2022
Digital trade reporting gaps
Discrepancies in digital product classification have resulted in more trade being reported under this category, especially for intangible goods.
2020-2022
Stricter customs regulations
Countries are tightening rules for proper HS code classification, reducing the volume of trade reported as 'Not Filled' in some regions.
2019-2022
The World Trade Organization has initiated a program to encourage member countries to reduce the use of 'Not Filled' categories by improving classification systems and training customs officials.
March 2023
Likely to decrease trade volume under this category as more goods are properly classified.
The European Union introduced a digital customs reporting system aimed at minimizing unclassified trade entries by integrating AI-based HS code suggestions for importers.
July 2023
Expected to improve accuracy in trade data reporting within the EU, reducing reliance on 'Not Filled' categories.
The United States announced a review of tariffs applied to unclassified goods to prevent misuse of the 'Not Filled' category for tariff evasion.
September 2023
May lead to higher compliance costs for importers and a shift towards proper classification.