HS Code:
Protective active footwear for men, classified under HS Code 6402.91.42, includes non-waterproof footwear designed for protective purposes, excluding those with molded bottoms or insulation against cold weather. The height from the bottom of the outer sole to the top of the upper does not exceed 15.34 cm. This category typically includes work boots and safety shoes used in industrial, construction, and other labor-intensive environments. The footwear is designed to offer protection against workplace hazards such as falling objects, punctures, or chemical exposure.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$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
12% ad valorem
Highest Rate
20% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Vietnam FTA)
Shift towards sustainable materials
Increased demand for eco-friendly and recyclable materials in protective footwear, driven by consumer and regulatory pressures in the EU and North America.
2021-2023
Rising labor safety regulations
Stricter workplace safety standards globally are boosting demand for certified protective footwear, particularly in emerging economies.
2020-2022
Supply chain diversification
Manufacturers are moving production from China to Vietnam and India due to trade tensions and cost advantages, reshaping trade patterns.
2019-2023
The European Union extended anti-dumping duties on certain Chinese footwear, including protective active footwear, to curb unfair pricing practices.
March 2023
Increased costs for Chinese exporters, potentially benefiting competitors from Vietnam and India.
Updates to the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) include provisions for regional content requirements, affecting the supply chain for protective footwear in North America.
January 2023
Encourages local production but may raise costs for manufacturers reliant on Asian imports.
The EVFTA, fully implemented in 2023, has reduced tariffs on Vietnamese footwear exports to the EU, making Vietnam a more competitive supplier.
August 2023
Boosts Vietnam's market share in the EU, challenging traditional exporters like China.