HS 070993 Pumpkins, squash and gourds (Cucurbita spp.)
Quick Answer: Pumpkins, squash, and gourds (Cucurbita spp.) imported under HS 070993 enter the UK at 12.00%, the EU at 12.80%, and the US at 1.5¢/kg under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers fresh or chilled varieties of these versatile vegetables, excluding dried, frozen, or preserved forms. Importers should be aware that the US offers duty-free entry for certain trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the varying tariff structures across major markets for these agricultural products.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0709930000 | — | — | — |
| 0709931000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0709939000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0709939010 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0709939090 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0709930000 | — | — | — |
| 0709931000 | — | — | — |
| 0709939010 | 12.80 % | — | — |
| 0709939090 | 12.80 % | — | — |
| 0709939000 | 12.80 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 070993 | — | — | — |
| 07099320 | 1.5¢/kg | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 0709932022 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0709932028 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0709932032 | — | — | ["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 0709.93?
Imports of Pumpkins, squash and gourds (Cucurbita spp.) 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 070993 cover?
This subheading covers pumpkins, squash, and gourds belonging to the genus *Cucurbita*. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes a wide variety of edible fruits from this genus, such as butternut squash, acorn squash, zucchini, and ornamental gourds, provided they are fresh or chilled. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC system align with this broad definition, encompassing all cultivars and varieties within the *Cucurbita* genus intended for consumption or decorative purposes.
What falls outside HS 070993?
The following products are excluded from HS 070993: sweet potatoes (HS 0714), yams (HS 0714), and other edible roots and tubers not belonging to the *Cucurbita* genus. Additionally, dried, provisionally preserved, or processed forms of pumpkins, squash, and gourds, such as canned or frozen products, are classified under different headings. For instance, dried pumpkin seeds would fall under HS 1207.99, and processed pumpkin puree would likely be classified in Chapter 20.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 070993?
A common error is misclassifying ornamental gourds that are not intended for consumption. While they are *Cucurbita* spp., if they are solely for decorative use and not edible, they might be subject to different interpretations or specific national rulings. Another mistake involves confusing these items with other types of squash or gourds not belonging to the *Cucurbita* genus, or misclassifying them when they are processed, such as when they are dried or made into flour, which would shift them to Chapter 11 or Chapter 20.
How should importers classify products under HS 070993?
The correct procedure for classifying pumpkins, squash, and gourds under HS 070993 involves confirming the botanical genus (*Cucurbita* spp.) and ensuring the product is fresh or chilled. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to verify the specific product description. It is crucial to examine the physical characteristics and intended use of the product to ensure it aligns with the subheading's scope and any relevant Explanatory Notes or national subdivisions.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 070993?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh butternut squash, declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $22.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 1.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($1,500 USD × 0.015 = $22.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 0709.93.9000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 070993?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 070993, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating pumpkins, squash, and gourds from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement meeting specific requirements is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries, often requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 070993 (Pumpkins, squash, and gourds)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 070993 is 12.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from Australia (AU), Chile (CL), or South Korea (KR) may be eligible for duty-free entry. Always verify the specific origin and applicable trade agreement to determine the correct duty rate. Source: USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
How is the import duty for HS 070993 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS 070993 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value of the goods). For instance, if pumpkins are imported with an invoice value of $1,000 USD and the MFN duty rate is 12.00%, the calculated duty would be $1,000 USD * 12.00% = $120.00 USD. In some cases, a specific duty per unit of weight may apply, such as 1.5¢/kg. If 1000 kg of squash were imported with a specific duty of 1.5¢/kg, the duty would be 1000 kg * 1.5¢/kg = 1500¢, which equals $15.00 USD. Always check the HTS for the applicable rate for your specific import.
What documentation is typically required for importing pumpkins, squash, and gourds under HS code 070993?
Standard documentation for importing fresh produce under HS 070993 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and destination, additional documents may be required, such as a phytosanitary certificate issued by the exporting country's plant protection organization to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Importers should consult the destination country's customs regulations and the relevant agricultural authorities for specific requirements.
Are there specific classification criteria that distinguish pumpkins, squash, and gourds under HS 070993 from other vegetables?
Yes, HS code 070993 specifically covers 'Pumpkins, squash and gourds (Cucurbita spp.)'. This includes varieties commonly known as pumpkins, winter squash, summer squash, and ornamental gourds that belong to the genus Cucurbita. The classification relies on the botanical identification of the produce. If the produce does not fall under the Cucurbita genus, it would be classified under a different HS code. For example, other vegetables of the gourd family (e.g., cucumbers, melons) are classified elsewhere.
Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS 070993 imports into the United States?
The United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) indicates preferential duty rates for HS 070993 under several trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and others listed with 'Free' entry in the HTS, benefit from reduced or eliminated duties. Importers must ensure they have a valid Certificate of Origin to claim these preferential rates. Always refer to the latest HTSUS, Chapter 98, and specific Free Trade Agreement provisions for eligibility and requirements.