HS Code:
The 'Thyme; bay leaves' category, classified under HS Code 091099, encompasses dried herbs used primarily for culinary purposes, as well as in traditional medicine and cosmetics. Thyme and bay leaves are aromatic herbs valued for their flavor and fragrance, with thyme often used in Mediterranean and European cuisines, and bay leaves integral to various global cuisines for their subtle aroma. This category is part of the broader spice and herb trade, which is influenced by agricultural conditions, regional culinary traditions, and growing demand for natural and organic products. Global trade in this category is driven by both bulk exports from producing countries and niche markets for premium or organic varieties.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $150 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$30 million USD
20% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
17% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
13% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
10% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$10 million USD
7% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain South Asian countries to protect domestic agriculture)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or specific bilateral agreements)
Rising demand for organic thyme and bay leaves
Increased market share for certified organic producers, particularly in Europe and North America, driving premium pricing
2021-2022
Growth in plant-based and health-focused diets
Boosted consumption of herbs like thyme as natural flavor enhancers and for their perceived health benefits
2020-2022
Climate change affecting production
Erratic weather patterns in key producing regions like the Mediterranean have led to supply fluctuations and price volatility
2019-2022
The European Union implemented stricter maximum residue limits (MRLs) for imported herbs, including thyme and bay leaves, to ensure consumer safety.
March 2023
Exporters from developing countries may face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing trade volumes to the EU market in the short term.
Turkey, a leading exporter, launched a government-supported initiative to increase organic thyme cultivation, targeting the growing European organic market.
June 2022
Strengthens Turkeyโs position as a top exporter and may pressure competitors to adopt similar organic standards.
A new bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on certain Indian agricultural exports, including bay leaves, to the United States.
September 2022
Expected to boost Indiaโs export volumes to the US, potentially shifting market shares from other exporters.