HS Code:
Snowboards, classified under HS Code 9506.11 (which includes snow-ski equipment and parts), are specialized sports equipment used for snowboarding, a popular winter sport. This category encompasses various types of snowboards designed for different skill levels and styles, including freestyle, freeride, and alpine. The global trade of snowboards is driven by demand in winter sport destinations, particularly in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. The market is influenced by seasonal demand, technological advancements in materials (e.g., lightweight composites), and the growing popularity of snowboarding as a recreational and competitive sport.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $250 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & International Trade Centre (ITC)
$80 million USD
32% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$60 million USD
24% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$40 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU agreements)
Growing demand for eco-friendly snowboards
Manufacturers are adopting sustainable materials like bamboo and recycled plastics, influencing production costs and consumer preferences.
2021-2023
Increase in snowboarding participation in Asia-Pacific
Rising middle-class income in countries like China and South Korea is driving demand, boosting exports to the region.
2020-2023
Technological innovation in snowboard design
Advancements in lightweight materials and hybrid camber profiles are increasing product differentiation and market competition.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring snowboard manufacturers to disclose the environmental impact of their products and reduce the use of non-recyclable materials.
January 2023
Increased production costs for non-compliant manufacturers but potential market advantage for eco-friendly brands.
A revised trade agreement reduced tariffs on sporting goods, including snowboards, exported from China to the US, facilitating smoother trade flows.
March 2022
Boosted Chinese exports to the US, potentially increasing competition for domestic manufacturers.
The 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics significantly raised global interest in snowboarding, leading to a spike in demand for equipment.
February 2022
Temporary surge in trade volume, particularly benefiting exporters like China and Austria.