HS Code:
The 'Other Vegetables' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 0709 includes a variety of vegetables that are not classified under specific vegetable categories such as onions, tomatoes, or cabbages. This category encompasses vegetables like artichokes, asparagus, eggplants, celery, mushrooms, truffles, peppers, spinach, and other similar edible plants, whether fresh or chilled. These vegetables are significant in global trade due to their culinary diversity, nutritional value, and seasonal demand across various regions. They play a critical role in agricultural economies, particularly in countries with favorable climates for diverse vegetable cultivation.
Total Trade Volume
USD 15.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local agriculture)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for organic vegetables
Increased trade in certified organic 'other vegetables' as consumers prioritize health and sustainability, driving premium pricing and export opportunities for countries with organic certification systems.
2021-2022
Growth in plant-based diets
Higher consumption of vegetables like mushrooms and eggplants as meat substitutes, boosting trade volumes particularly in North America and Europe.
2020-2022
Climate change affecting production
Shifts in growing seasons and yields due to erratic weather patterns, causing supply chain disruptions and price volatility in key exporting regions.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter phytosanitary controls on imported vegetables, including those in the 'Other Vegetables' category, to prevent the spread of invasive pests.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant countries while benefiting those with robust inspection systems.
A new phase of the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain vegetables, boosting Chinese exports of mushrooms and peppers to the US market.
January 2023
Strengthened trade flows between the two countries, with China gaining a larger share of the US vegetable import market.
Severe drought conditions in Spain and Italy led to a significant drop in vegetable yields, including artichokes and peppers, affecting export volumes.
July 2023
Reduced supply from key exporters caused price spikes globally, benefiting alternative suppliers like Mexico and Turkey.