Turmeric HS Codes Explained: A Complete Guide for Importers

What is an HS Code?

The Harmonized System (HS) is an international nomenclature for classifying traded products. Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), it's used by customs authorities worldwide to:

An HS code is a 6-digit number that classifies products. Countries add additional digits (typically 2-4 more) for more specific classification. In the US, this becomes the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code with 10 digits. In the EU, it's the CN (Combined Nomenclature) code with 8 digits.

Why it matters: The wrong HS code can mean:

HS Code Structure for Turmeric

Turmeric products fall under Chapter 09 of the HS system: Coffee, Tea, Maté and Spices.

Here's how the classification breaks down:

Chapter 09: Coffee, Tea, Maté and Spices

Heading 0910: Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric, Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices

This is where all turmeric products are classified.

6-Digit HS Codes for Turmeric

Under 0910.30, countries add additional digits:

Important: The exact extended codes vary by country. Always verify with the specific country's tariff schedule.

US HTS Codes for Turmeric

The United States uses 10-digit HTS codes. Here are the relevant codes for turmeric:

Raw/Whole Turmeric

HTS 0910.30.0000 - Turmeric (curcuma)

This code covers:

Duty rate: Free (Most Favored Nation)

Ground Turmeric (Powder)

HTS 0910.30.0000 - Turmeric (curcuma)

In the US, both whole and ground turmeric fall under the same code.

Duty rate: Free (MFN)

Turmeric Oleoresin

HTS 1302.19.9140 - Vegetable saps and extracts; oleoresins

This covers:

Duty rate: Free (MFN)

Curcumin Extract (Purified)

HTS 2914.69.9000 or 2932.99.9000** - Depending on purity and form

Highly purified curcumin (95%+) may be classified as:

Note: Classification of high-purity curcumin can be complex. Consult a customs broker for specific products.

Turmeric as Food Coloring

HTS 3203.00.8000 - Coloring matter of vegetable origin

If turmeric is specifically prepared and marketed as a food colorant, it may fall here.

EU CN Codes for Turmeric

The European Union uses 8-digit CN codes:

Raw/Whole Turmeric

CN 0910 30 00 - Turmeric (curcuma)

Covers whole dried turmeric, not crushed or ground.

Duty rate: 0% (Erga omnes)

Ground Turmeric

CN 0910 30 00 - Turmeric (curcuma)

Same code covers ground turmeric in the EU.

Duty rate: 0% (Erga omnes)

Turmeric Oleoresin

CN 1302 19 70 - Vegetable saps and extracts

Duty rate: 0%

Curcumin (E100)

CN 3203 00 19 - Coloring matter of vegetable origin (when used as colorant)

Or

CN 2914 69 90 - Other ketones (for pharmaceutical-grade curcumin)

Other Major Markets

India (Export Codes)

India uses ITC-HS codes (8 digits):

United Kingdom

Post-Brexit, the UK uses its own tariff (UKGT), largely mirroring EU codes:

Commodity code: 0910 30 00 00 - Turmeric

Duty rate: 0%

Canada

Australia

Japan

UAE/GCC

Understanding Duty Rates

Most Favored Nation (MFN) Rates

MFN rates are the standard duty rates applied to WTO member countries. For turmeric, MFN rates are typically 0% in most developed markets.

Preferential Rates

If India has a free trade agreement with the importing country, even lower rates (or zero rates) may apply. However, turmeric is already duty-free in most major markets, so this is less relevant.

Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)

Some countries offer GSP benefits for imports from developing countries like India. Check if your country offers GSP and if turmeric qualifies.

US GSP: Currently suspended, but turmeric was previously covered.

EU GSP: India is not currently a GSP beneficiary for the EU.

Common Classification Challenges

Whole vs Ground

Challenge: Shipment contains both whole and ground turmeric.

Solution: Classify separately if packed separately. If mixed, classify under the form that gives essential character (usually the predominant form by weight).

Value-Added Products

Challenge: Turmeric mixed with other ingredients (e.g., turmeric latte mix, golden milk powder).

Solution: These are typically classified as food preparations under Chapter 21 (Miscellaneous edible preparations) rather than as spices. Example: HTS 2106.90 for food preparations not elsewhere specified.

Extracts and Concentrates

Challenge: Where to classify turmeric oleoresin or curcumin extract?

Solution:

The intended use and processing level affect classification.

Organic vs Conventional

Challenge: Is organic turmeric classified differently?

Solution: No, the HS code is the same. Organic certification is a separate matter for documentation, not classification.

Practical Tips for Importers

1. Get a Binding Ruling

If you're unsure about classification, request a binding ruling from your customs authority:

A binding ruling provides certainty and protects you from reclassification.

2. Use Correct Product Descriptions

Ensure your commercial invoice describes the product accurately:

Good: "Turmeric powder (Curcuma longa), dried and ground, curcumin content 5%, in 25kg bags"

Bad: "Yellow spice powder"

Vague descriptions invite customs scrutiny.

3. Provide Supporting Documents

Have these ready for customs:

4. Understand Country-Specific Requirements

Beyond HS codes, be aware of:

5. Work With a Customs Broker

For regular imports, establish a relationship with a customs broker who understands spice imports. They can:

Duty Calculation Example

Scenario: Importing 20 MT of turmeric powder to the US

Additional fees to consider:

Total for this example:

Note: Turmeric itself is duty-free, but administrative fees still apply.

Documentation We Provide

At JJ Spices, we provide comprehensive export documentation to ensure smooth customs clearance:

Standard documentation:

On request:

We declare HS codes based on the actual product shipped and can advise on classification for complex orders.

HS Code Quick Reference

Important Disclaimers

Official Resources

For verifying HS codes:

For duty rates:

Conclusion

For most turmeric imports, classification is straightforward: HS 0910.30 covers standard turmeric products with zero or minimal duty in major markets.

Complexity arises with:

When in doubt:

Getting classification right from the start prevents costly delays and penalties.

Questions about HS codes or import documentation? Contact us at +91 94921 56789 or [email protected]. We can provide accurate classification information and complete export documentation for your turmeric imports.