HS Code:
The 'Paste' category, often classified under various HS Codes depending on the specific type (e.g., tomato paste under HS Code 2002.90, or other food pastes), includes processed products typically used in food preparation, industrial applications, or as intermediates in manufacturing. This category encompasses a wide range of products like fruit and vegetable pastes, adhesive pastes, and other semi-solid mixtures. These products are traded globally due to their utility in culinary, cosmetic, and industrial sectors. The trade of pastes is influenced by agricultural production capacities, processing technologies, and regional dietary preferences.
Total Trade Volume
USD 5.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Rising demand for organic and natural pastes
Increased exports from countries with strong organic farming standards like Italy and Spain; higher prices for certified organic products
2021-2023
Growth in processed food consumption in emerging markets
Boosted imports of pastes in countries like India and Brazil, driving demand for bulk and retail packaging
2020-2022
Technological advancements in food processing
Improved shelf life and quality of paste products, leading to expanded export markets for countries with advanced processing capabilities
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations on pesticide residues and microbial content for imported food pastes, requiring exporters to comply with new testing protocols.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters, potential delays in shipments, and possible market access barriers for smaller producers
A new phase of the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain food pastes, facilitating greater market access for American exporters.
January 2023
Boosted US exports of tomato and other food pastes to China, potentially increasing trade volume by 10-15% in 2023
Severe drought in parts of Southern Europe and Turkey affected raw material availability for paste production, particularly tomatoes and olives.
Summer 2022
Reduced export volumes from affected countries, leading to higher global prices and shifts in supply chains to alternative producers