HS Code:
Toy jewelry (except parts) valued not over 8 cents per piece, classified under HS Code 9503.00, pertains to inexpensive imitation jewelry items designed for childrenโs play. These products are typically made from low-cost materials such as plastic, base metals, or synthetic stones, and are often sold as part of toy sets or individually. This category is a subset of the broader toy industry and is characterized by high volume, low-cost production, primarily aimed at young consumers for recreational or dress-up purposes. The trade of these items is influenced by factors such as consumer safety regulations, material costs, and seasonal demand during holidays.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $250 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map
$180 million USD
72% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$10 million USD
4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$8 million USD
3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries with protective policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA or EU Single Market)
Shift toward eco-friendly materials
Growing consumer demand for sustainable and non-toxic materials is pushing manufacturers to adopt biodegradable plastics and natural dyes, increasing production costs but also market appeal in developed regions.
2021-2023
Rise in e-commerce sales
Online retail platforms have become a dominant distribution channel for toy jewelry, reducing costs for exporters and increasing access to global markets, particularly in North America and Europe.
2020-2023
Seasonal demand spikes
Significant increases in trade volume occur during holiday seasons (e.g., Christmas and Halloween), prompting exporters to ramp up production in Q3 of each year to meet demand.
2019-2023
The European Union updated its Toy Safety Directive to include stricter limits on chemical content in toy jewelry, particularly targeting heavy metals and allergens.
June 2023
Exporters to the EU, especially from China and Vietnam, face higher compliance costs and potential delays due to mandatory testing and certification.
Ongoing trade disputes have led to additional tariffs on Chinese-made toy jewelry entering the US market, prompting some US importers to diversify sourcing to Vietnam and Thailand.
March 2022
Shift in trade patterns with reduced reliance on Chinese exports and increased market share for Southeast Asian countries.
Post-COVID-19 supply chain bottlenecks and rising shipping costs have affected the timely delivery of toy jewelry, particularly during peak holiday seasons.
October 2021 - December 2022
Increased costs for importers and temporary shortages in key markets like the US and EU, leading to higher retail prices.