HS Code:
Orchard grass, classified under HS Code 121490 (forage products including swedes, mangolds, fodder roots, hay, lucerne, clover, sainfoin, forage kale, lupines, vetches, and similar forage products), is a perennial cool-season grass widely used for hay, pasture, and silage in livestock feeding. It is valued for its high nutritional content and adaptability to various climates. Global trade in orchard grass and related forage products is driven by demand from the livestock and dairy industries, particularly in regions with significant animal husbandry activities.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local forage industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA and EU trade pacts)
Rising demand for high-quality forage in dairy-intensive regions
Increased exports from major producers like the US and Australia to markets in Asia and the Middle East
2021-2022
Adoption of sustainable farming practices
Shift towards organic orchard grass and forage products, influencing trade patterns and premium pricing
2020-2022
Climate change affecting production
Erratic weather patterns in key producing regions have led to supply fluctuations, impacting global trade stability
2019-2022
A new trade agreement reduced tariffs on forage products, including orchard grass, facilitating easier access to the European market for US exporters.
March 2023
Expected to boost US exports by 10-15% over the next two years.
Several Asian countries, including Japan and South Korea, have tightened phytosanitary regulations on imported forage to prevent invasive species and diseases.
January 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters and potential delays in shipments.
Following severe droughts in 2019-2020, Australia has seen a recovery in orchard grass production, leading to a surge in export volumes.
October 2022
Strengthened Australia's position as a key supplier, particularly to Middle Eastern markets.