HS 070920 Asparagus
Quick Answer: Asparagus imported under HS 070920 enters the UK at 10.00%, the EU at 10.20%, and the US with a range of rates including 5% ad valorem and duty-free for certain preferential trade agreements. This Harmonized System (HS) code specifically covers fresh or chilled asparagus. Importers should be aware of potential seasonal variations in duty rates or specific import quotas that may apply in different jurisdictions, as detailed by CustomTariffs. Understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate customs declarations and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0709200000 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0709200010 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0709200090 | 10.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0709200000 | 10.20 % | — | — |
| 0709200010 | 10.20 % | — | — |
| 0709200090 | 10.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 070920 | — | — | — |
| 0709209010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 07092010 | 5% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 0709201010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0709201090 | — | — | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 0709.20?
Imports of Asparagus may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 070920 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled asparagus, scientifically known as *Asparagus officinalis*. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes whole asparagus spears, whether or not trimmed, but not processed in any way that would alter their fundamental nature. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system both align with this definition, encompassing only the raw vegetable in its natural state, suitable for immediate consumption or further preparation without significant industrial processing.
What falls outside HS 070920?
The following products are excluded from HS 070920: asparagus that has been preserved by freezing, drying, or canning, as these undergo significant processing and are classified under different headings. Also excluded are asparagus roots or crowns intended for planting, which fall under Chapter 06. Furthermore, asparagus prepared or preserved by vinegar or acetic acid, or containing added sugar, salt, or other seasonings, are typically classified as vegetables prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid, under heading 2008.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 070920?
A common error is the misclassification of asparagus that has undergone minimal processing, such as blanching or pre-cutting, which may still be considered fresh or chilled under certain interpretations. However, if these processes significantly alter the product's characteristics or prepare it for direct consumption without further cooking, it might fall under Chapter 20. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and 2 is crucial, ensuring classification is based on the essential character of the goods as presented.
How should importers classify products under HS 070920?
The correct procedure for classifying asparagus under HS 070920 involves confirming that the product is fresh or chilled and has not undergone any preservation or significant processing. Importers and customs brokers must carefully examine the product's condition and presentation. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database, and reviewing the explanatory notes for Chapter 07 is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 070920?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh asparagus declared at a customs value of $3,000 USD would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($3,000 USD × 0.05 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for subheading 0709.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 070920?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 070920, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which offers duty-free entry for qualifying asparagus originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may provide preferential rates, often "Free," for asparagus from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for fresh asparagus (HS 070920) into the United States?
For fresh asparagus classified under HS code 0709.20, the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate into the United States is 10.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, asparagus imported from Peru under the Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PTPA) may have a duty rate of 5.00% ad valorem. Always verify the specific country of origin and applicable trade agreement to determine the correct duty rate. Source: USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
How is the import duty for asparagus (HS 070920) calculated in the European Union?
In the European Union, the Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) for asparagus (HS 0709.20) typically carries a duty rate of 10.20% ad valorem. For instance, if 1,000 kg of fresh asparagus are imported with a customs value of €2,000, the ad valorem duty would be 10.20% of €2,000, resulting in a duty of €204. However, specific preferential rates may apply for goods originating from countries with preferential trade agreements with the EU. Source: EU TARIC Database.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing asparagus (HS 070920) into the United Kingdom?
When importing asparagus (HS 0709.20) into the United Kingdom, standard customs declarations are required. Depending on the origin and specific trade agreements, proof of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under agreements like the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement or others. Phytosanitary certificates may also be required to ensure the asparagus meets UK import health and safety standards, particularly for fresh produce. Consult the UK Trade Tariff for the most current requirements. Source: UK Trade Tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 070920 (Asparagus)?
HS code 0709.20 specifically covers 'Asparagus, fresh or chilled'. The key classification criterion is that the product must be asparagus, and it must be presented in a fresh or chilled state. Frozen or otherwise preserved asparagus would fall under different HS codes. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide guidance, confirming that this heading applies to asparagus that has undergone no treatment other than chilling or freezing (provided it remains in a form identifiable as fresh or chilled). Source: WCO Harmonized System.
Can you provide an example of how preferential duty rates for asparagus (HS 070920) work under a Free Trade Agreement?
Consider the import of fresh asparagus (HS 0709.20) into Australia from a country with a Free Trade Agreement that grants duty-free status. If the standard duty rate is 5% ad valorem, but under the FTA, asparagus originating from that specific country is eligible for a 0% duty rate, the importer would pay no duty. To claim this, a valid Certificate of Origin, compliant with the FTA's rules, must be presented to customs authorities. This demonstrates that the asparagus meets the agreement's rules of origin. The duty calculation would then be: 0% × Value = $0 duty. Always confirm the specific FTA provisions and required documentation.