HS Code:
The category 'Put up for retail sale as food suitable for infants or for dietetic purposes' (commonly associated with HS Code 1901.10) includes prepared food products specifically formulated for infants, young children, or for individuals with specific dietary needs, such as gluten-free or low-calorie products. These products are often packaged for direct retail sale and include items like infant formula, baby food, and specialized dietary supplements. This category is critical due to its impact on public health and nutrition, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Total Trade Volume
USD 15.3 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 2.8 billion
18.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.1 billion
13.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.9 billion
12.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.5 billion
9.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.2 billion
7.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
6.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade or USMCA)
Rising demand for organic and non-GMO infant food
Increased market share for organic products, pushing manufacturers to reformulate products and invest in certification; higher prices for consumers
2021-2022
Growth in plant-based dietary products
Expansion of product lines to include vegan or plant-based infant and dietetic foods, catering to changing consumer preferences
2020-2022
Increased regulatory scrutiny on infant formula
Stricter import regulations and testing requirements in major markets like China and the EU, affecting trade flows and increasing compliance costs
2022
The European Union introduced new regulations tightening the permissible levels of contaminants in infant food products, alongside mandatory labeling for allergens.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU market; potential delays in shipments due to additional testing requirements.
A significant shortage of infant formula in the United States led to emergency imports and temporary relaxation of certain import restrictions to meet demand.
May 2022
Boosted short-term imports from countries like the Netherlands and Ireland; long-term push for domestic production incentives.
China implemented stricter import registration requirements for infant formula to ensure product safety and quality after past scandals.
January 2022
Reduced number of eligible exporters to China; significant market entry barriers for smaller producers.