HS Code:
The 'Shoulders' category, typically classified under HS Code 0203 (for pork shoulders) or related codes for other meats, refers to cuts of meat from the shoulder area of animals, primarily pigs, cattle, and lambs. This category is a significant segment of the global meat trade, often used in processed meat products, roasts, and stews. Shoulder cuts are valued for their flavor and tenderness when cooked properly, making them popular in various cuisines worldwide. Trade in this category is influenced by factors such as livestock production, consumer demand for affordable meat cuts, and international trade agreements.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $5.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and WTO Statistics
$1.3 billion USD
25% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$850 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$600 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$500 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$400 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
12.5%
Highest Rate
35% (imposed by certain Asian markets on non-preferential trade partners)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU trade deals)
Rising demand for processed meat products
Increased trade in shoulder cuts for sausages and ready-to-eat meals, particularly in urban markets of Asia and Europe
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable and organic meat
Growing niche market for certified organic or free-range shoulder cuts, impacting pricing and trade flows
2020-2022
Fluctuations in feed costs
Higher livestock feed prices have reduced profit margins for exporters, slowing trade growth in some regions
2022
Under the 2020 Phase One trade deal, China reduced tariffs on US pork shoulders, boosting exports from the US to China.
January 2020 (ongoing impact through 2022)
Increased US market share in China, affecting competitors like Brazil and the EU.
Outbreaks of ASF in major pork-producing regions have disrupted supply chains, leading to higher prices and shifts in trade routes.
2019-2022
Countries like Denmark and Germany have seen fluctuating export volumes due to temporary bans in affected areas.
New EU regulations under the Green Deal aim to reduce meat consumption and impose stricter environmental standards on imports.
Announced 2021, phased implementation through 2023
Potential reduction in shoulder cut imports to the EU unless exporters meet sustainability criteria.