HS Code:
Tulip bulbs fall under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 060110, which covers dormant bulbs, tubers, tuberous roots, corms, crowns, and rhizomes. Tulip bulbs are a significant category in the global floriculture trade, primarily used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping. The Netherlands dominates this market due to its long-standing history of tulip cultivation and advanced horticultural techniques. Trade in tulip bulbs is seasonal, with peak activity typically occurring in the fall for planting. The demand is driven by both commercial growers and individual consumers in regions with suitable climates for tulip growth, such as Europe and North America.
Total Trade Volume
USD 300 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 250 million
83.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 15 million
5.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 10 million
3.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 8 million
2.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 5 million
1.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local agriculture)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Growing demand for sustainable and organic tulip bulbs
Increased production costs but higher market prices; shift toward eco-friendly certifications
2021-2023
Expansion of tulip cultivation in non-traditional regions
Emerging markets in Asia and South America are increasing local production, reducing reliance on imports
2020-2022
Technological advancements in bulb storage and transport
Extended shelf life and reduced losses during shipping, boosting trade volumes
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter phytosanitary requirements for tulip bulb imports to prevent the spread of bulb-specific pests like Fusarium oxysporum.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters, potential delays in shipments, but improved bulb quality assurance for importers
The Dutch government and private sector invested in new cold storage facilities and logistics to support a 10% increase in tulip bulb exports.
September 2022
Strengthened Dutch dominance in the global market, potential price stabilization due to higher supply
A new bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on certain horticultural products, including tulip bulbs, facilitating easier access to the Chinese market for US exporters.
January 2023
Potential growth in US exports to China, though competition with Dutch suppliers remains strong