HS 071220 Onions

Quick Answer: Onions imported under HS 071220 enter the UK at 12.00%, the EU at 12.80%, and the US at 21.3% under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This HS code specifically covers dried onions, whether whole, cut, or sliced, but excludes onions that are otherwise prepared or preserved. For the US, preferential duty rates may apply to imports from certain Free Trade Agreement partner countries, potentially reaching 0% for some. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific origin-based duty rates to ensure accurate declarations. CustomTariffs aggregates this information for global trade compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0712200000 12.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0712200000 12.80 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
071220 — — —
0712204000 21.3% Free (16 programs) ["kg"]
0712202000 29.8% Free (16 programs) ["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 0712.20?

Imports of Onions 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, 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 071220 cover?

This subheading covers dried, dehydrated, or otherwise preserved onions, whether whole, cut, sliced, or in powder form, provided they are not elsewhere specified or included. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is for onions intended for consumption or further processing. For example, dried onion flakes or onion powder fall under this code, as confirmed by definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU's TARIC database.

What falls outside HS 071220?

The following products are excluded from HS 071220: fresh or chilled onions (classified under HS 0703.20), onions preserved by vinegar or acetic acid (classified under HS 2001.90), and onions prepared or preserved in sugar (classified under HS 2006.00). Additionally, onion seeds are classified under HS 1209.91, and onion flours or meals not specifically dried or dehydrated are typically classified under HS 1106.30.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 071220?

A common error is misclassifying onion products that have undergone minimal processing but are still considered fresh or chilled, which should be classified under HS 0703.20. Another mistake involves confusing dried onion powder with onion preparations that include other ingredients or are preserved in a manner that places them in different headings, such as HS 2103.90 for sauces. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and 3 is crucial.

How should importers classify products under HS 071220?

The correct procedure for classifying onions under HS 071220 involves first determining if the product is dried, dehydrated, or otherwise preserved. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the UK Trade Tariff, to verify the specific wording and any relevant explanatory notes. Confirmation of the product's state and intended use is paramount.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 071220?

A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of dried onion powder, 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, applied to the declared value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 071220?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 071220, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from developing countries. Documentation such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 070310 HS 071010 HS 071420 HS 071234 HS 070820 HS 070420

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 071220 (Onions)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for onions (HS 071220) can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States applies a rate of 12.80% ad valorem. In the European Union, the rate is 12.00% ad valorem under the TARIC system. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff lists a rate of 21.3% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.

Are there preferential duty rates available for HS 071220 under trade agreements?

Yes, numerous trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for onions (HS 071220). For instance, under the USMCA, onions may enter the United States duty-free from Canada and Mexico. The EU's TARIC system indicates 'Free' duty rates for imports from various partner countries including Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), and others listed (D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). Importers should verify the specific origin of their onions and the applicable trade agreement to claim preferential treatment.

How is the import duty for HS 071220 calculated, and can you provide an example?

Import duty for HS 071220 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if onions are imported into the United States with a declared customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 12.80%, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.1280 (duty rate) = $1,280. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit of weight or volume) or a combination. Always confirm the calculation basis with the importing country's customs authority.

What classification criteria distinguish onions under HS 071220 from other related products?

HS code 071220 specifically covers 'Onions, dried, whether or not cut, crushed or powdered, but not further prepared.' This means the product must be onions (Allium cepa L.) that have undergone a drying process. Products that are fresh or chilled (HS 0703), frozen (HS 0710), or preserved by other means (e.g., pickled, in brine, or cooked) would be classified under different HS codes. 'Dried' implies the removal of moisture to a level that prevents spoilage under normal storage conditions. Further preparation, such as incorporation into a seasoning mix or a ready-to-eat meal, would also lead to a different classification.

What documentation is typically required for importing onions under HS code 071220?

Standard import documentation for HS 071220 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, additional documents may be required. This can include a phytosanitary certificate to ensure the onions are free from pests and diseases, especially if imported from certain regions. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a certificate of origin or other proof of origin documentation will be necessary. Importers should consult the specific import requirements of the destination country's customs agency.