HS Code:
Truffles, classified under HS Code 0709.59, are a category of highly valued edible fungi known for their distinct aroma and flavor. They are primarily used in gourmet cuisine and are considered a luxury food item. Truffles are typically foraged from the wild or cultivated in specific regions with suitable climate and soil conditions, such as parts of Europe, particularly France and Italy. Global trade in truffles is relatively niche but significant due to their high market value and demand in high-end culinary markets.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $300 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$120 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$90 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$30 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$20 million USD
7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain countries on luxury food imports)
Lowest Rate
0% (under specific free trade agreements, e.g., EU internal trade)
Rising demand for truffles in Asia
Increased exports to markets like Japan, South Korea, and China, driving price growth
2021-2022
Growth in truffle cultivation
Countries like Spain and Australia are expanding truffle farming, reducing reliance on wild harvests and stabilizing supply
2020-2022
Climate change affecting production
Warmer temperatures and irregular rainfall in traditional truffle regions are threatening yields, increasing prices
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter certification requirements for truffle exports to ensure authenticity and protect regional brands like the Pรฉrigord black truffle.
March 2023
Increased consumer trust but added compliance costs for exporters
China has emerged as both a producer and consumer of truffles, with domestic cultivation increasing and demand for imported European truffles rising in luxury dining.
January 2023
Diversified global supply chains and intensified competition for European exporters
The United States reduced tariffs on certain EU luxury food imports, including truffles, as part of ongoing trade negotiations.
October 2022
Boosted EU truffle exports to the US, a key high-value market