HS Code:
The 'Valued not over $20 each' category typically includes low-cost consumer goods, accessories, and miscellaneous items under various Harmonized System (HS) codes. These products are often small-ticket items such as toys, household goods, apparel accessories, or electronics accessories. Due to their low individual value, they are frequently traded in high volumes, often through e-commerce platforms, and are subject to specific customs and tariff considerations under de minimis rules in many countries.
Total Trade Volume
USD 15.3 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under de minimis exemptions in countries like the US and EU for low-value shipments)
Growth in e-commerce trade for low-value items
Increased cross-border shipments due to platforms like Amazon, AliExpress, and Shein, driving higher trade volumes but also stricter customs oversight.
2021-2022
Policy shifts on de minimis thresholds
Countries like the US and EU have adjusted or are considering lowering de minimis thresholds to capture revenue from low-value imports, impacting trade flows.
2022
Sustainability concerns in shipping
High volume of small packages raises environmental concerns, leading to calls for consolidated shipping or carbon taxes on low-value goods.
2023
The European Union implemented new rules under the Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) scheme, requiring VAT collection on all imports, regardless of value, to level the playing field for local businesses.
July 1, 2021
Increased costs for consumers and administrative burden for exporters of low-value goods to the EU.
Amid concerns over unfair competition and revenue loss, US policymakers are debating reducing the de minimis threshold from $800 to align more closely with other countries.
March 2023
Potential reduction in low-value imports from countries like China if duties and taxes are applied to smaller shipments.
Platforms like Temu and Shein have fueled a surge in low-value imports, leveraging de minimis rules to offer competitive pricing.
Q2 2023
Increased trade volume in this category but also heightened scrutiny from regulators on compliance and product safety.