HS 070820 Beans (Vigna spp., Phaseolus spp.)

Import duty rates for HS code 070820, covering beans of the Vigna and Phaseolus genera, vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 4.9¢/kg. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, rates can range from 4.9% to 10.4% ad valorem, often with a minimum specific duty, such as '10.40 % MIN 1.60 EUR / 100 kg'. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varied rates, with some preferential agreements offering duty-free entry. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the applicable duty.

When a duty rate includes both an ad valorem percentage and a minimum specific duty, the importer pays the higher of the two calculated amounts. For instance, if beans are imported into the EU with a duty of '10.40 % MIN 1.60 EUR / 100 kg', and 100 kg of beans are valued at €200, the ad valorem duty would be 10.40% of €200, which is €20.80. The specific duty is 1.60 EUR per 100 kg, totaling €1.60 for this shipment. Since €20.80 is greater than €1.60, the importer would pay €20.80. If the same 100 kg were valued at €100, the ad valorem duty would be €10.40, and the specific duty would still be €1.60. In this case, the importer would pay €10.40.

Standard import documentation for HS code 070820 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the origin of the goods, additional documents may be necessary. This can include a phytosanitary certificate to ensure the beans are free from pests and diseases, especially for fresh or dried beans. Certificates of Origin may also be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should verify the specific requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.

Yes, numerous trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often including duty-free entry, for HS code 070820. For example, within the European Union, goods originating from countries with an Association Agreement or a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) may benefit from reduced or zero duties. Similarly, the United States has FTAs with various countries (e.g., USMCA) that could impact duty rates. The UK also has a network of FTAs post-Brexit. To determine eligibility for preferential treatment, importers must ensure the beans meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation.

HS code 070820 covers beans of the genera Vigna and Phaseolus. This includes common beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, navy beans, and lima beans (Phaseolus spp.), as well as cowpeas, adzuki beans, mung beans, and yardlong beans (Vigna spp.). The classification is based on the botanical genus. It generally applies to beans whether fresh, chilled, frozen, or simply dried (unshelled or shelled). It does not typically cover beans in pods that are primarily used as vegetables (which might fall under HS 0708.90 or other vegetable codes) or processed bean products like canned beans or bean flour, which are classified in later chapters of the HS nomenclature.