HS Code:
The category 'Of bovines, and of a unit surface area not exceeding 28 square feet (2.6 m²)' typically refers to leather or hides derived from bovine animals, processed or unprocessed, with a specific size limitation. This category falls under the Harmonized System (HS) Code related to raw hides, skins, and leather (likely under Chapter 41). These products are primarily used in the manufacturing of footwear, furniture, automotive upholstery, and fashion accessories. Global trade in this category is influenced by factors such as livestock production, environmental regulations, and demand for sustainable and ethically sourced materials.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $5.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database / International Trade Centre (ITC)
$1.3 billion USD
25% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$900 million USD
17% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$700 million USD
13% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$500 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$400 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USA or within regional blocs like Mercosur)
Rising demand for sustainable leather
Increased focus on eco-friendly tanning processes and traceability in supply chains, pushing exporters to adopt greener technologies.
2021-2023
Growth in vegan leather alternatives
Moderate decline in demand for traditional bovine leather in some markets, particularly in Europe and North America, affecting trade volumes.
2020-2022
Shift in production to Asia
Countries like India and Vietnam are becoming key players due to lower labor costs and growing manufacturing hubs, impacting traditional exporters like Argentina.
2019-2023
The European Union has introduced stricter regulations under the Green Deal framework, mandating lower carbon footprints and sustainable practices in leather processing.
March 2023
Exporters to the EU market, especially from Brazil and India, face higher compliance costs but gain access to premium markets with certified products.
A recent bilateral agreement has reduced tariffs on bovine leather products between the US and China as part of broader trade negotiations.
January 2023
Increased export opportunities for US bovine leather to China, potentially shifting trade dynamics in Asia.
Brazil has relaxed export quotas on raw bovine hides to boost foreign exchange earnings amid economic recovery efforts.
July 2022
Short-term increase in supply to global markets, potentially lowering prices but benefiting importing countries like Italy.