HS 070960 Fruits of the genus Capsicum or of the genus Pimenta
Quick Answer: Fruits of the genus Capsicum or of the genus Pimenta imported under HS 070960 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.40%, and the US at 4.4¢/kg (MFN). This classification covers peppers, including bell peppers, chili peppers, and pimento (allspice berries), whether fresh or chilled. Importers should note that the US offers duty-free entry for many trading partners under specific free trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the varying ad valorem and specific duty structures across major trading blocs. Exporters and customs brokers must verify specific country-of-origin requirements and any potential preferential duty rates applicable to their shipments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0709600000 | — | — | — |
| 0709601000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0709609100 | — | — | — |
| 0709609500 | — | — | — |
| 0709609900 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0709601000 | 7.20 % | — | — |
| 0709600000 | — | — | — |
| 0709609900 | 6.40 % | — | — |
| 0709609920 | 6.40 % | — | — |
| 0709609100 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0709604005 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0709604009 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0709604011 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0709604013 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 07096020 | 4.4¢/kg | Free (17 programs) | — |
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 0709.60?
Imports of Fruits of the genus Capsicum or of the genus Pimenta 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 14 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 070960 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled fruits of the genus Capsicum, commonly known as peppers (including bell peppers, chili peppers, and jalapeños), and fruits of the genus Pimenta, such as allspice berries. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are distinct botanical classifications. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC system align with this, specifying that these fruits are classified here when presented in their raw, unprocessed state, excluding dried or preserved forms.
What falls outside HS 070960?
The following products are excluded from HS 070960: dried peppers (classified under HS 0904), sweet peppers and chili peppers, provisionally preserved but not yet suitable for immediate consumption (e.g., pickled or in brine, typically classified under HS 2001), and ground or powdered peppers (classified under HS 0904). While both are members of the Capsicum genus, ornamental pepper varieties not intended for consumption are generally not classified under Chapter 07, and their classification would depend on their specific presentation and intended use.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 070960?
A common error is misclassifying dried or powdered peppers, which belong to HS Chapter 09 (Spices), specifically HS 0904. Another mistake involves confusing peppers preserved in vinegar or brine, which are typically classified under HS 2001 as vegetables prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 070960?
The correct procedure for classifying fruits of the genus Capsicum or Pimenta under HS 070960 involves confirming the botanical genus and the state of the product. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is fresh or chilled and belongs to either the Capsicum or Pimenta genus. Consulting official tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO, will provide definitive guidance and ensure accurate declaration, preventing potential delays or penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 070960?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh bell peppers declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem (5.0% × $2,500 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the ad valorem duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 0709.60.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 070960?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 070960, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) can also offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a EUR.1 movement certificate for certain EU preferences, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 070960 (Fruits of the genus Capsicum or of the genus Pimenta)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS code 070960 can vary by country. For instance, the United States applies a rate of 6.00% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC system may have different rates depending on specific origin and product form. The UK Trade Tariff also lists specific rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 070960 when a specific duty rate (e.g., cents per kilogram) is applied?
When a specific duty rate is applied, such as 4.4¢/kg, the duty is calculated based on the net weight of the imported goods. For example, if 1,000 kilograms of peppers are imported at a rate of 4.4¢/kg, the total duty would be 1,000 kg * 4.4¢/kg = 4,400 cents, which is equivalent to $44.00. This is in addition to any ad valorem (percentage of value) duties that might also apply, depending on the specific tariff.
What are the classification criteria for goods under HS code 070960?
HS code 070960 covers 'Other vegetables, fresh or chilled' specifically for 'Fruits of the genus Capsicum or of the genus Pimenta'. This includes items commonly known as bell peppers, chili peppers, sweet peppers, and pimento (allspice berries when fresh or chilled). The classification is based on the botanical genus. Dried, or otherwise preserved forms would fall under different HS codes.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 070960?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 070960. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may benefit from reduced or free entry. Other agreements, such as those between the EU and various partner countries, or the UK's trade agreements, also list preferential rates. Importers must verify the rules of origin to claim these benefits. The provided sample rates indicate 'Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)', suggesting preferential access under various bilateral or regional trade agreements for countries designated by these letter codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 070960?
Standard import documentation for fresh or chilled vegetables, including peppers under HS 070960, generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and specific regulations, a phytosanitary certificate issued by the exporting country's plant protection organization may be required to ensure the goods are free from pests and diseases. Importers should also be prepared to provide proof of origin if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement.