HS Code:
The category provided for in subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 21(q) to this subchapter typically includes specific agricultural or food products under the Harmonized System (HS) Code structure, often subject to tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) or special provisions as outlined in U.S. trade agreements or legislation. These subheadings may cover products such as dairy, sugar, or other commodities with controlled import volumes to protect domestic industries while adhering to international trade commitments. The exact products depend on the specific subheading referenced, but they generally involve goods with significant market sensitivity and regulatory oversight.
Total Trade Volume
USD 12.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) and World Trade Organization (WTO) data
Average Rate
15.3%
Highest Rate
35.0% (for over-quota imports of certain dairy products)
Lowest Rate
0% (under specific trade agreements like USMCA)
Increased demand for organic and specialty products
Higher import volumes for niche agricultural goods under quota exemptions, driving market diversification
2021-2022
Shift towards regional trade agreements
Reduced tariffs and increased trade volumes with USMCA partners, particularly Canada and Mexico
2020-2022
Rising input costs globally
Higher prices for imported goods, affecting trade competitiveness and consumer prices in the U.S.
2022
Under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, Canada agreed to expand TRQs for U.S. dairy exports, impacting import dynamics for related subheadings.
July 1, 2022
Increased market access for U.S. exporters, potentially reducing import reliance on other countries.
A WTO panel ruled on a dispute regarding U.S. sugar import quotas, urging adjustments to comply with global trade rules.
December 15, 2022
Possible revisions to tariff structures and quota allocations, affecting trade volumes.
The U.S. introduced stricter sanitary and phytosanitary measures for certain agricultural imports under this category.
March 10, 2023
Potential delays and increased compliance costs for exporters to the U.S. market.