HS Code:
Witloof chicory (Cichorium intybus var. foliosum), commonly known as Belgian endive, is a variety of chicory that is grown for its edible, blanched leaves. It is cultivated in darkness to prevent greening and to maintain its characteristic pale color and mild, slightly bitter flavor. This product falls under HS Code 070521, which pertains to fresh or chilled witloof chicory. It is primarily used in culinary applications, especially in European cuisines, for salads, appetizers, and garnishes. The global trade of witloof chicory is niche but significant in specific regions, with production and consumption heavily concentrated in Europe.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 200,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map and FAO Statistics
80,000 metric tons
40% of global trade of total trade
Stable
60,000 metric tons
30% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
30,000 metric tons
15% of global trade of total trade
Stable
15,000 metric tons
7.5% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
10,000 metric tons
5% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5-10% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by some non-EU countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (within EU under Common Agricultural Policy and free trade agreements)
Growing demand for organic witloof chicory
Increased production costs but higher profit margins for certified organic producers, especially in the EU market
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable farming practices
Adoption of hydroponic and controlled-environment agriculture to reduce water usage and improve yield consistency
2020-2022
Rising popularity in North American markets
Export opportunities for European producers, though limited by high transportation costs and perishability
2019-2022
The European Union tightened maximum residue limits (MRLs) for certain pesticides used in chicory cultivation, impacting exporters to the EU market.
January 2023
Non-compliant producers face market access challenges; increased costs for compliance testing.
Dutch farmers have invested in advanced hydroponic systems for witloof chicory, boosting year-round production capacity.
March 2022
Strengthened position of the Netherlands as a leading exporter; potential price competition in the EU market.
Belgian trade bodies launched campaigns to promote witloof chicory as a cultural delicacy, aiming to boost domestic and international demand.
October 2022
Potential increase in niche market demand, particularly in gourmet and specialty food sectors.