HS Code:
This category, classified under a specific Harmonized System (HS) code, pertains to articles presented by citizens of foreign countries to the President or Vice President of the United States, as requested by the Department of State. These articles are typically symbolic gifts or items of cultural significance, intended to foster diplomatic relations. Due to their unique nature, they are subject to specific customs regulations and are often exempt from standard tariffs under certain conditions. Trade in this category is not driven by commercial intent but by diplomatic and ceremonial purposes.
Total Trade Volume
Not quantifiable in standard monetary terms (Symbolic Value)
Data from 2023
Source
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of State Records
Symbolic (Cultural Artifacts)
Not applicable of total trade
Stable
Symbolic (Historical Items)
Not applicable of total trade
Stable
Symbolic (Traditional Gifts)
Not applicable of total trade
Stable
Symbolic (Artistic Pieces)
Not applicable of total trade
Stable
Symbolic (Handcrafted Items)
Not applicable of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
Duty-Free (Under Specific Conditions)
Highest Rate
Not applicable (Exemptions Apply)
Lowest Rate
Duty-Free
Increase in Cultural Exchanges
More symbolic gifts exchanged during state visits, reflecting stronger diplomatic ties.
2021-2023
Focus on Sustainability
Gifts increasingly include eco-friendly or handcrafted items to promote cultural and environmental awareness.
2022-2023
Digital Documentation
Customs processes for such items are becoming digitized, improving transparency and tracking.
2023
The U.S. Department of State revised policies on the acceptance and documentation of foreign gifts to ensure compliance with ethical guidelines.
January 2023
Stricter documentation may slow down the processing of such items but enhances accountability.
A surge in state visits and diplomatic engagements has led to a higher exchange of symbolic gifts between nations.
March 2023
Greater volume of articles under this category, necessitating streamlined customs procedures.
New security protocols were introduced for screening foreign gifts to mitigate potential risks.
July 2023
May cause delays in the clearance of items but ensures safety and compliance with national security standards.