HS Code:
Softballs, categorized under HS Code 9506.69 (articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, other sports), are specialized balls used primarily in the sport of softball. They differ from baseballs in size, material composition, and stitching, often being larger and softer. Global trade in softballs involves manufacturing hubs in Asia, particularly China, and significant demand from North America, where softball is a popular sport at both amateur and professional levels. The trade includes various types of softballs, such as fastpitch, slowpitch, and training balls, made from leather, synthetic materials, or rubber.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$25 million USD
50% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$3 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$2 million USD
4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA for North American trade)
Rising demand for eco-friendly materials
Manufacturers are shifting towards sustainable synthetic leather and recyclable materials, increasing production costs but appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
2021-2022
Growth in women’s sports participation
Increased participation in softball globally, especially in women’s and youth leagues, has boosted demand for softballs in regions like Europe and Asia-Pacific.
2020-2022
Shift of manufacturing to Southeast Asia
Countries like Vietnam are emerging as key manufacturing hubs due to lower labor costs, reducing China’s dominance slightly and diversifying supply chains.
2019-2022
Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, tariffs on sports equipment, including softballs, were reduced to 0% for member countries, facilitating smoother trade in North America.
July 2020
Increased export volumes from the US to Canada and Mexico, strengthening regional supply chains.
Global lockdowns and port delays in 2020-2021 disrupted softball manufacturing and shipping, particularly from China, leading to temporary shortages in key markets like the US.
March 2020 - June 2021
Price increases of up to 15% in some markets due to supply constraints; accelerated shift to alternative suppliers in Vietnam and Taiwan.
The European Union implemented stricter regulations on chemical content in sports equipment, requiring manufacturers to ensure softballs are free from certain hazardous substances.
January 2022
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing profit margins for smaller manufacturers.