HS Code:
The category 'Other fructose and fructose syrup, containing in the dry state more than 50 percent by weight of fructose, excluding invert sugar' (HS Code: 170260) includes fructose and fructose syrups that are not classified as invert sugar. These products are primarily used as sweeteners in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the production of soft drinks, confectionery, and baked goods. Fructose syrups, such as high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), are derived from corn starch and are a cost-effective alternative to sucrose in many applications. This category is significant in global trade due to the widespread demand for sweeteners in processed foods and the varying production capacities and agricultural policies across countries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $2.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$1.2 billion USD
48% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$400 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$300 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$150 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
30% (applied by certain countries with protective agricultural policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA)
Rising demand for natural and alternative sweeteners
Increased competition for high-fructose corn syrup as consumers and manufacturers shift towards stevia and other natural sweeteners, potentially reducing trade volumes in some regions.
2021-2023
Growth in processed food consumption in developing economies
Higher demand for cost-effective sweeteners like fructose syrup in Asia and Africa, boosting export opportunities for major producers like the United States and China.
2020-2022
Policy shifts towards sugar taxes and health regulations
Some countries imposing taxes on high-fructose products to combat obesity, which may dampen demand and affect trade flows in the long term.
2019-2023
Revised terms under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) have facilitated duty-free trade of fructose syrups between member countries, boosting exports from the United States to Mexico.
July 2020
Strengthened trade ties and increased market access for U.S. producers, contributing to a 10% rise in trade volume between the U.S. and Mexico.
The European Union initiated an investigation into alleged dumping of fructose syrups from China, which could lead to the imposition of additional tariffs.
March 2023
Potential reduction in Chinese exports to the EU market, redirecting trade flows to other regions like Southeast Asia.
Countries like Chile and Peru have introduced labeling requirements and taxes on high-fructose content products to address public health concerns.
January 2022
Slight decline in demand for fructose syrup imports in these markets, prompting exporters to explore alternative destinations.