HS Code:
This category, subject to the quantitative limits specified in U.S. note 4(a) to this subchapter, pertains to specific imported goods under the Harmonized System (HS) Code framework, often related to agricultural or textile products with strict import quotas and tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) enforced by the United States. These limits are designed to protect domestic industries by controlling the volume of imports eligible for preferential tariff treatment. Products in this category are typically sensitive to trade imbalances and are governed by bilateral or multilateral trade agreements, such as those under the World Trade Organization (WTO) or regional trade pacts.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United States International Trade Commission (USITC) and UN Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
35% (over-quota rate for specific products)
Lowest Rate
0% (within-quota under preferential trade agreements)
Increased demand for organic and sustainably sourced products
Shifts in import composition favoring countries with certified sustainable production, potentially benefiting exporters like Brazil and Australia
2021-2022
Rising input costs due to global supply chain disruptions
Higher production costs in exporting countries leading to reduced competitiveness and potential quota underfills
2022
Strengthening of regional trade agreements like USMCA
Increased market access for North American partners (Canada and Mexico) under revised quota allocations
2020-2022
The United States updated TRQ allocations for certain products under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, increasing in-quota access for Canadian and Mexican exporters while maintaining strict over-quota tariffs.
January 2023
Enhanced trade flows from North American partners, potentially reducing reliance on other global suppliers.
A WTO panel reviewed complaints from several exporting countries regarding the administration of U.S. quantitative limits, citing potential non-compliance with fair allocation practices.
September 2022
Possible revisions to quota distribution mechanisms, which could affect market access for smaller exporters.
The U.S. announced potential integration of sustainability and labor standards as criteria for quota eligibility, aligning with broader policy goals on climate and fair trade.
March 2023
May favor exporters with robust environmental certifications while posing challenges for non-compliant suppliers.