HS Code:
The 'Valued less than 18.75ยข/kg' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code typically includes low-value bulk commodities or raw materials. These products are often agricultural or industrial inputs with minimal processing, traded in large volumes due to their low per-unit cost. This category may encompass items such as certain ores, basic chemicals, or low-grade agricultural products, depending on the specific HS code sub-category. Trade in this segment is highly sensitive to global commodity prices, transportation costs, and trade policies.
Total Trade Volume
USD 12.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 3.2 billion
25.6% of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.1 billion
16.8% of total trade
Stable
USD 1.8 billion
14.4% of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.5 billion
12.0% of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.0 billion
8.0% of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12.5% (imposed by certain developing economies to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or WTO commitments)
Rising demand in emerging markets
Increased trade volumes as industrialization in Asia and Africa drives demand for low-cost raw materials.
2021-2022
Fluctuating commodity prices
Price volatility affects trade profitability, with significant impacts on exporting nations reliant on this category.
2020-2022
Shift towards sustainable sourcing
Buyers increasingly prioritize environmentally friendly production methods, influencing supplier selection.
2022
A regional trade agreement has reduced tariffs on low-value commodities, boosting exports from countries like Australia and Brazil to Asian markets.
March 2023
Expected to increase trade volume by 10% over the next two years.
A major exporting country imposed temporary export restrictions to stabilize domestic supply amid price surges.
January 2023
Short-term supply chain disruptions for importing nations, with a potential price increase of 5-7%.
Stricter environmental regulations in the EU have been introduced, targeting the import of low-value commodities with high carbon footprints.
July 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters, potentially reducing trade competitiveness for non-compliant suppliers.