Asian Market Guide: Your Trusted Source for Market Insights
Market intelligence to help sellers navigate international trade and logistics
Introduction to Asia’s Trade and Export Landscape
Asia is home to some of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies, making it a crucial player in global trade. With extensive connections to markets across Europe, North America, and beyond, the region is a leader in both commodity exports and a rapidly growing eCommerce hub. This Asian Market Guide provides a detailed overview of the import and export landscape in Asia, offering insights into essential trade facts, top exports to the U.S., and the most effective selling and distribution channels for businesses aiming to enter Asian markets or import Asian goods.
Overview of Asia’s Market Strengths
Asia’s diverse economies thrive on their ability to leverage natural resources, agricultural products, and a skilled workforce. Key exports include electronics, textiles, machinery, agricultural products, and consumer goods. With favorable trade agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and strategic shipping routes, the region outlined in this Asian Market Guide is an attractive trade partner for businesses worldwide.
In this guide, you’ll find essential trade data, including:
- Quick Facts: Discover the de minimis value for U.S. imports, import tariffs, prohibited items, and labeling requirements across various Asian countries.
- Top Exports: Explore Asia’s top exports to the U.S., ranging from high-tech products to popular goods sold on eCommerce platforms like Amazon.
- Selling Channels: Learn about the most effective distribution and sales channels, including eCommerce marketplaces, local retailers, and direct-to-consumer shipping options with express customs clearance.
Whether you are an importer or an exporter, this comprehensive Asian Market Guide will provide the tools and knowledge needed to navigate Asia’s trade regulations and tap into new market opportunities.
Quick Facts
De Minimis Value for USA Imports from Asia:
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- Shipments valued under $800 (de minimis threshold) can enter the U.S. duty-free.
- Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Import Tariffs:
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- Most Asian products benefit from duty-free entry to the U.S. under various trade agreements, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and specific agreements with countries like Japan and South Korea.
- Tariff rates can be checked using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).
- HTS Website
Prohibited Items from Import:
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- Agricultural products (specific fruits, meats, and live animals) require permits.
- Cultural items like some aboriginal artifacts are prohibited from export without authorization.
- China:
- China’s Export Control Law: Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China
- India:
- Restricted and Prohibited Exports: Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
- Japan:
- Export Control Regulations: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI)
- South Korea:
- Export Control Regulations: Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA)
- Southeast Asian Countries:
- ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement: ASEAN
Labeling and Marking Requirements:
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- Country of origin labeling is required for food and consumer products.
- Products must comply with Asia’s competition and consumer protection laws regarding false or misleading information.
- National Competition and Consumer Protection Agencies
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HS Codes:
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- Harmonized System (HS) codes are used to classify and track goods. Find HS Codes specific to Asian exports on:
- Harmonized System Website
Trade Agreements:
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- Asia has numerous free trade agreements (FTAs), including those with the U.S., China, Japan, and South Korea.
- For details, visit the respective government trade agreements pages of individual Asian countries.
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China:
- Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China: MOFCOM
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Japan:
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: Japan Trade Agreements
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South Korea:
- Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy: MOTIE
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India:
- Ministry of Commerce and Industry: Commerce Department
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Singapore:
- Ministry of Trade and Industry: MTI
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Indonesia:
- Ministry of Trade: Kementerian Perdagangan
Thailand:
- Ministry of Commerce: MOC
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Philippines:
- Department of Trade and Industry: DTI
Top Exports to the USA from Asia
Commodity Categories:
- Electronics: Smartphones, computers, and consumer electronics.
- Textiles: Garments, fabrics, and footwear.
- Machinery: Industrial machinery, equipment, and automotive parts.
- Agricultural Products: Rice, fruits, and seafood.
Specific Examples Sold on Amazon:
- Electronics: Brands like Xiaomi and Huawei smartphones.
- Textile Products: Clothing from brands such as Uniqlo and H&M.
- Beauty Products: Korean skincare brands like Innisfree and Laneige.
Other:
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- Agricultural Products: High-quality Asian rice and seafood products are commonly sold via online platforms.
- Nutraceuticals: Popular Asian vitamins and supplements, such as those from brands like Herbalife, are gaining traction in the U.S. market.
Asia’s Export Statistics :
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- For detailed statistics and insights, refer to trade reports from relevant government agencies or trade organizations.
China
Huawei Phone’s
Products: High-end smartphones known for advanced features.
Amazon Store: HuaweiXiaomi Mi Band
Products: Affordable fitness trackers and smartwatches.
Amazon Store: XiaomiLenovo Laptops
Products: Popular laptops known for performance and value.
Amazon Store: LenovoAnker Power Banks
Products: Reliable portable chargers and accessories.
Amazon Store: AnkerTaoTronics Earbuds
Products: Wireless earbuds with noise-canceling features.
Amazon Store: TaoTronics
Japan
Sony PlayStation
Products: Gaming console and accessories.
Amazon Store: PlayStationShiseido Skincare
Products: High-end skincare products and cosmetics.
Amazon Store: ShiseidoPanasonic Electric Shaver
Products: Popular electric razors known for quality.
Amazon Store: PanasonicMuji Stationery
Products: Minimalist stationery and home goods.
Amazon Store: MujiUniqlo Apparel
Products: Casual clothing known for quality and affordability.
Amazon Store: Uniqlo
South Korea
Innisfree Green Tea Serum
Products: Popular skincare serum with natural ingredients.
Amazon Store: InnisfreeLaneige Water Sleeping Mask
Products: Best-selling overnight hydrating mask.
Amazon Store: LaneigeEtude House Makeup
Products: Trendy and affordable cosmetics.
Amazon Store: Etude HouseSamsung Galaxy Series
Products: High-end smartphones with advanced features.
Amazon Store: SamsungLG OLED TV
Products: Premium televisions known for picture quality.
Amazon Store: LG
India
Patanjali Ayurvedic Products
Products: Natural health and wellness products.
Amazon Store: PatanjaliBaidyanath Chyawanprash
Products: Traditional herbal jam for immunity.
Amazon Store: BaidyanathSaffola Cooking Oil
Products: Health-focused cooking oil.
Amazon Store: SaffolaTitan Watches
Products: Popular Indian watch brand known for quality.
Amazon Store: TitanFabIndia Ethnic Wear
Products: Traditional Indian clothing and home decor.
Amazon Store: FabIndia
Singapore
Razer Gaming Products
Products: Gaming peripherals and accessories.
Amazon Store: RazerTiger Beer
Products: Iconic Singaporean beer.
Amazon Store: Tiger BeerChope Restaurant Vouchers
Products: Vouchers for dining at various restaurants.
Amazon Store: ChopeTefal Cookware
Products: High-quality non-stick cookware.
Amazon Store: TefalSingapore Sling
Products: Classic cocktail mix.
Amazon Store: Singapore Sling
Indonesia
Bali Hai Beer
Products: Popular Indonesian beer.
Amazon Store: Bali HaiIndomie Instant Noodles
Products: Iconic instant noodle brand.
Amazon Store: IndomieKraft Paper Products
Products: Eco-friendly paper products.
Amazon Store: KraftSariayu Cosmetics
Products: Traditional herbal skincare products.
Amazon Store: SariayuMilo Powder
Products: Chocolate malt beverage mix.
Amazon Store: Milo
Thailand
Thai Kitchen Coconut Milk
Products: Essential ingredient for Thai cooking.
Amazon Store: Thai KitchenPatak’s Thai Curry Paste
Products: Ready-made curry paste.
Amazon Store: Patak’sBamboo Rice
Products: Specialty rice with unique flavor.
Amazon Store: Bamboo RiceCha Tra Mue Thai Tea
Products: Popular Thai tea brand.
Amazon Store: Cha Tra MueBlue Elephant Thai Sauce
Products: Authentic Thai cooking sauces.
Amazon Store: Blue Elephant
Philippines
Jollibee Sauce
Products: Iconic fast-food dipping sauces.
Amazon Store: JollibeeAdobo Seasoning Mix
Products: Popular seasoning for Filipino dishes.
Amazon Store: AdoboMang Tomas All-Around Sarsa
Products: Famous Filipino sauce for lechon.
Amazon Store: Mang TomasBounty Fresh Chicken
Products: Fresh chicken products known for quality.
Amazon Store: Bounty FreshGoldilocks Bakery Products
Products: Traditional Filipino baked goods.
Amazon Store: Goldilocks
Selling in USA
Distribution and Sales Channels:
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- Wholesalers/Distributors: Collaborate with established U.S. distributors for bulk sales, utilizing global B2B platforms like Alibaba and TradeKey.
- Retail Partners: Many Asian brands successfully sell through major U.S. retailers such as Costco, Walmart, and Target.
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- Amazon.com: The leading marketplace for selling Asian products directly to U.S. consumers, offering a vast reach and customer base.
- eBay: A strong alternative channel for Asian exporters to connect with U.S. consumers, especially for unique and niche products.
- Etsy: Popular for artisanal Asian products, particularly in crafts, home goods, and handmade items.
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- Express Carriers: Utilize express carriers like DHL Express, FedEx, and UPS for direct-to-consumer shipping with expedited customs clearance options.
- Customs Brokers: Engaging customs brokers is recommended to ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations for direct shipping.
- DHL Express Guide to Shipping to the USA
Top Seaports in Asia for Commercial Import/Export Trade
Port of Shanghai
- Location: China
- Overview: The largest container port in the world, handling over 40 million TEUs annually and serving as a key hub for international trade.
- Website: Port of Shanghai
Port of Singapore
- Location: Singapore
- Overview: A leading global hub for transshipment, the Port of Singapore is one of the busiest ports, known for its efficient operations and strategic location in Southeast Asia.
- Website: Port of Singapore Authority
Port of Hong Kong
- Location: Hong Kong
- Overview: One of the world’s major ports, it serves as a key gateway for trade with China and is known for its high efficiency in container handling and logistics services.
- Website: Hong Kong Marine Department
Port of Busan
- Location: South Korea
- Overview: The largest port in South Korea, Busan is one of the busiest ports globally, specializing in container shipping and providing extensive logistics services.
- Website: Busan Port Authority
Port of Tanjung Priok
- Location: Indonesia
- Overview: The main harbor of Jakarta, Tanjung Priok is the largest and busiest port in Indonesia, critical for handling imports and exports for the country.
- Website: Port of Tanjung Priok
Top Airports in Asia for Commercial Import/Export Trade
1. Port of Shanghai
- Location: China
- Overview: The largest container port in the world, handling a significant portion of China’s international trade and providing vital connectivity to global shipping routes.
- Website: Port of Shanghai
2. Port of Singapore
- Location: Singapore
- Overview: A leading global hub for transshipment, the Port of Singapore is one of the busiest ports in the world, known for its efficient operations and strategic location in Southeast Asia.
- Website: Port of Singapore Authority
3. Port of Hong Kong
- Location: Hong Kong
- Overview: One of the world’s major ports, it serves as a key gateway for trade with China and is known for its high efficiency in container handling.
- Website: Hong Kong Marine Department
4. Port of Busan
- Location: South Korea
- Overview: The largest port in South Korea and one of the busiest in the world, specializing in container shipping and transshipment.
- Website: Busan Port Authority
5. Port of Tanjung Priok
- Location: Indonesia
- Overview: The main harbor of Jakarta and the largest and busiest port in Indonesia, critical for handling imports and exports for the country.
- Website: Port of Tanjung Priok
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As you explore the opportunities within the Asian market, trust American eLogistics to handle your logistics needs with expertise and care. Our comprehensive international shipping services simplify both imports and exports, helping you navigate complex regulations and streamline your supply chain.
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Import Services: We provide reliable ocean freight forwarding into Asia, complete with full customs clearance assistance, ensuring your goods arrive safely and in compliance with all regulations. Our team is ready to assist with all aspects of your import process, from port to final delivery.
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Export & Reverse Logistics: For businesses exporting from Asia to the U.S. or other global markets, we offer reverse logistics solutions that efficiently consolidate cargo for export. Whether you need air or ocean freight, our services help you reduce costs while maintaining full visibility over your shipments. We consolidate your returns and exports into a seamless, cost-effective process, ensuring that your goods reach their destinations on time.
Partner with American eLogistics for a tailored, end-to-end shipping solution that handles both imports and exports with ease. Contact us today to learn how we can optimize your global supply chain and provide you with the logistics support you need to grow your business.
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