HS Code:
Semolina, classified under HS Code 110311 (for wheat semolina) and related codes, is a coarse flour made from durum wheat, primarily used in the production of pasta, couscous, and certain baked goods. It is a staple ingredient in many cuisines, particularly in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African regions. The global trade of semolina is driven by demand for high-quality pasta and traditional foods, with production heavily concentrated in countries with significant wheat cultivation and processing capabilities.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 2.5 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
800,000 metric tons
32% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
600,000 metric tons
24% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
300,000 metric tons
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
200,000 metric tons
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
150,000 metric tons
6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5-10% ad valorem
Highest Rate
Up to 35% in certain developing countries to protect local wheat processing industries
Lowest Rate
0% under free trade agreements (e.g., EU internal trade, USMCA)
Rising demand for gluten-free alternatives
Slight decline in traditional semolina demand in health-conscious markets, with growth in alternative grain semolina (e.g., corn, rice)
2021-2023
Growth in organic semolina products
Increased exports from countries like Italy and France, catering to premium markets in North America and Europe
2020-2022
Expansion of pasta consumption in Asia
Higher semolina imports by countries like China and India, boosting trade volumes for exporters like Turkey
2019-2023
The EU and Tunisia finalized a revised trade agreement reducing tariffs on semolina imports to the EU, benefiting Tunisian exporters.
March 2023
Expected to increase Tunisia's semolina exports to Europe by 15-20% over the next two years.
Turkey reported a record high in semolina exports due to competitive pricing and proximity to Middle Eastern markets.
January 2023
Strengthened Turkeyโs position as a leading semolina exporter, potentially challenging Italyโs dominance.
Extreme weather conditions in Canada affected durum wheat harvests, leading to a temporary reduction in semolina production and exports.
August 2022
Short-term price increases for semolina in international markets, benefiting competitors like Turkey and Italy.