HS Code:
Tomatillos (HS Code: 07096090 under the broader category of vegetables) are small, green, tomato-like fruits encased in a papery husk, commonly used in Mexican cuisine for salsas and sauces. They belong to the nightshade family and are distinct from tomatoes due to their tart flavor and firmer texture. Tomatillos are primarily cultivated in regions with warm climates, and their global trade is influenced by seasonal availability, agricultural practices, and demand for ethnic cuisines. Major trade flows occur between North and Central American countries, driven by proximity and trade agreements like USMCA (formerly NAFTA).
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 150,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and USDA Foreign Agricultural Service
120,000 metric tons
80% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
15,000 metric tons
10% of global trade of total trade
Stable
7,500 metric tons
5% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
3,000 metric tons
2% of global trade of total trade
Stable
2,500 metric tons
1.5% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain Asian countries with limited domestic production)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU-Mexico Trade Agreement)
Rising demand for ethnic foods in North America and Europe
Increased exports from Mexico and Central America to meet demand for tomatillos in salsa and authentic Mexican cuisine, driving a 10% annual growth in trade volume
2021-2023
Adoption of greenhouse cultivation
Improved year-round availability and quality of tomatillos, reducing seasonal price volatility and boosting trade stability
2020-2022
Organic certification gaining traction
Higher prices for certified organic tomatillos, creating a niche market with 15-20% price premiums, particularly in the EU and US
2019-2023
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) continues to facilitate duty-free trade of tomatillos, with updated rules of origin ensuring smoother cross-border supply chains.
July 2022
Strengthened Mexico-US trade corridor, with a projected 5% increase in tomatillo exports to the US and Canada.
Mexico and the European Union finalized an agreement to streamline phytosanitary inspections for tomatillos, reducing export delays and costs.
March 2023
Expected to boost Mexican tomatillo exports to Europe by 8-10% over the next two years.
Unpredictable weather patterns and droughts in Central America have led to a temporary decline in tomatillo yields, affecting export volumes from Guatemala and Honduras.
September 2023
Short-term price increases of 5-7% in international markets due to supply constraints.