HS Code:
The Sheep category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 0104 pertains to live sheep and lambs, primarily traded for agricultural purposes such as meat production (mutton and lamb), wool, and breeding. This category is a significant segment of the global livestock trade, influenced by factors like regional demand for meat, cultural dietary preferences, and wool production needs. Sheep trade is critical in regions with pastoral economies, and it plays a vital role in food security and rural livelihoods.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 800 million
32% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 600 million
24% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 300 million
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
6% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
30% (imposed by certain Middle Eastern countries for protective measures)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement)
Rising demand in Middle Eastern markets
Increased exports from Australia and Sudan to meet demand for Halal meat, especially during religious festivals like Eid al-Adha
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable farming practices
Growing preference for organically raised sheep, impacting trade patterns with higher premiums for certified products
2020-2022
Impact of climate change on pastoral regions
Droughts and changing weather patterns in key exporting countries like Australia have led to supply fluctuations
2019-2022
Australia signed a new trade pact with several Middle Eastern countries, reducing tariffs on live sheep exports and establishing streamlined veterinary certification processes.
March 2023
Expected to boost Australian sheep exports by 15% over the next two years, strengthening its market dominance.
The European Union introduced stricter animal welfare standards for live animal transport, affecting sheep imports and exports within and into the region.
January 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters like Spain and the UK, potentially reducing trade volumes to EU markets.
Reports of foot-and-mouth disease in parts of Africa led to temporary import bans by key markets, impacting Sudanese exports.
July 2022
Short-term decline in Sudanese trade volume, with a shift in demand towards Australian and New Zealand suppliers.