HS Code:
The category of sports footwear, including tennis shoes, basketball shoes, gym shoes, training shoes, and similar products, falls under HS Code 640411. This category encompasses athletic footwear designed for specific sports or general fitness activities, typically featuring specialized soles and materials for enhanced performance, comfort, and durability. This segment is a significant part of the global footwear market, driven by increasing health consciousness, sports participation, and fashion trends like athleisure.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $27 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$9.5 billion USD
35.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$5.2 billion USD
19.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$2.8 billion USD
10.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$2.1 billion USD (imports dominant)
7.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.5 billion USD (imports dominant)
5.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
12% ad valorem
Highest Rate
Up to 30% in certain markets like India and Brazil (protective tariffs for domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0-5% in free trade zones or under agreements like EU-USMCA
Rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly sports footwear
Brands are increasingly using recycled materials and vegan leather, influencing sourcing and production locations to meet consumer and regulatory demands.
2021-2023
Growth in athleisure and casual sports footwear
Blurring lines between sports and fashion footwear have boosted demand, particularly in urban markets, driving trade volumes in countries like Vietnam and Indonesia.
2020-2023
Shift in manufacturing bases due to trade tensions
US-China trade wars have led to a diversification of production to Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, reshaping global supply chains.
2019-2023
The US maintained additional tariffs on Chinese sports footwear under Section 301, prompting manufacturers to relocate production to Southeast Asia.
Mid-2022
Increased costs for US consumers and accelerated growth in exports from Vietnam and Indonesia.
The EU introduced stricter sustainability criteria under the Green Deal, mandating transparency in supply chains and material usage for sports footwear.
Early 2023
Exporters must adapt to new compliance costs, potentially slowing trade from non-compliant regions while benefiting sustainable producers.
Vietnam signed multiple FTAs, including the EU-Vietnam FTA, reducing tariffs on sports footwear exports to key markets.
Late 2021
Solidified Vietnam's position as a leading exporter, challenging China's dominance in the sector.