HS Code:
The 'Trousers and Breeches' category (HS Code: 6203 for men's or boys' trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts of textile materials, and 6204 for women's or girls') includes a wide range of lower-body garments made from various textile materials, excluding knitted or crocheted items. This category covers casual, formal, and workwear trousers and breeches, representing a significant segment of the global apparel market. These products are essential in daily wear across demographics and are influenced by fashion trends, seasonal demand, and economic conditions.
Total Trade Volume
USD 45.6 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & World Trade Organization (WTO)
USD 12.8 billion
28.1% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 5.2 billion
11.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 4.9 billion
10.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.3 billion
5.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.8 billion
3.9% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
12.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (imposed by certain developing countries on non-preferential trade partners)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA or RCEP)
Shift towards sustainable materials
Increased demand for trousers made from organic cotton and recycled fabrics due to consumer awareness and regulatory pressures in markets like the EU and US.
2021-2022
Rise of athleisure wear
Growth in hybrid trousers and breeches that blend casual and sporty designs, driven by changing lifestyle preferences post-COVID-19.
2020-2022
Digitalization of supply chains
Adoption of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer models has boosted trade volumes, especially for exporters with strong online presence.
2021-2023
The European Union introduced a strategy for sustainable and circular textiles, mandating stricter environmental standards for imported trousers and breeches.
March 2022
Exporters to the EU must adapt to eco-design requirements, increasing production costs but potentially improving market access for compliant suppliers.
Continued tariffs on Chinese apparel under Section 301 have led to a partial shift in sourcing to Vietnam and Bangladesh for trousers and breeches.
Ongoing since 2019, reviewed in 2023
Diversification of supply chains away from China, benefiting other Asian exporters but increasing costs for US importers.
The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) came into effect, reducing tariffs on apparel trade among member countries in Asia-Pacific.
January 2022
Boosted intra-regional trade for trousers and breeches, especially for countries like Vietnam and China, enhancing competitiveness.