HS Code:
The category 'Other business and professional journals and periodicals (including single issues tied together for shipping purposes)' under HS Code 490290 encompasses a variety of printed materials used primarily for professional, technical, and business purposes. These include specialized magazines, journals, and periodicals that cater to specific industries or professional groups, often shipped in bundled formats for distribution. This category excludes general consumer magazines and newspapers, focusing instead on niche content that serves as a critical resource for professionals globally.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 350 million
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
3.5%
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic printing industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-US trade pacts)
Digital Transition Impacting Print Volumes
A gradual decline in physical journal shipments as digital subscriptions rise, particularly in developed markets, though niche professional journals maintain demand for print copies.
2021-2022
Increased Demand for Specialized Content
Growing trade in journals catering to emerging fields such as renewable energy, AI, and biotechnology, driving export growth from innovation hubs like the US and Germany.
2020-2022
Sustainability Concerns in Shipping
Rising preference for eco-friendly packaging and reduced shipping frequencies, influencing bundled shipment practices for periodicals.
2022
The European Union implemented a temporary tariff reduction on imported professional journals classified as educational materials to support research and development.
June 2023
Increased imports from the US and UK into EU markets, boosting trade volumes by an estimated 5%.
A new bilateral agreement reduced restrictions on printed materials, including professional journals, easing previous content review barriers in China.
March 2023
Expected to increase US exports to China by 8% over the next two years.
Several countries introduced digital service taxes impacting publishers offering both print and digital journals, indirectly affecting print trade strategies.
January 2023
Publishers may shift focus to print exports in markets with high digital taxes, potentially stabilizing trade volumes for physical periodicals.