HS Code:
The 'Of rabbit or hare' category, typically classified under HS Code 0208.10, encompasses fresh, chilled, or frozen meat and edible offal of rabbits and hares. This niche segment of the meat industry caters to specific markets where rabbit meat is a traditional or specialty food item, often valued for its lean protein content and unique flavor. It is a smaller category compared to mainstream meats like poultry, beef, or pork, but it holds cultural and culinary significance in regions such as Europe, parts of Asia, and North Africa. Trade in this category is influenced by factors such as local production capacity, dietary preferences, and regulatory frameworks surrounding animal welfare and food safety.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$45 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$30 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
17% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
13% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$15 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local markets)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade or specific bilateral agreements)
Growing demand in Asia-Pacific
Increased exports to countries like China and Vietnam due to rising interest in alternative meats and dietary diversification.
2021-2022
Sustainability concerns in Europe
Shift towards local production and reduced imports due to consumer preference for sustainable and ethically sourced meat.
2020-2022
Impact of disease outbreaks
Temporary trade disruptions in key exporting countries due to outbreaks of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV), affecting supply chains.
2020-2021
The European Union introduced stricter veterinary checks and certification requirements for rabbit meat imports to prevent the spread of RHDV.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters outside the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-EU countries.
China has invested in large-scale rabbit farming to meet growing domestic demand, reducing reliance on imports.
June 2022
Potential decline in import demand, affecting major exporters like France and Spain.
A bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on French rabbit meat exports to Vietnam, boosting trade potential.
September 2022
Expected increase in French exports to Vietnam, diversifying market access for European producers.