HS 071440 Taro (Colocasia spp.)

Quick Answer: Taro (Colocasia spp.) imported under HS 071440 enters the UK at 7.90 GBP / 100 kg, the EU at 9.50 EUR / 100 kg, and the US at 2.3% (MFN). This code specifically covers taro, a starchy root vegetable also known as dasheen or elephant ear. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on origin and specific trade agreements, particularly in the US where certain preferential origins may benefit from duty-free entry. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in trade compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0714400000 7.90 GBP / 100 kg — —
0714400010 7.90 GBP / 100 kg — —
0714400089 7.90 GBP / 100 kg — —
0714400099 7.90 GBP / 100 kg — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0714400000 9.50 EUR / 100 kg — —
0714400089 9.50 EUR / 100 kg — —
0714400010 9.50 EUR / 100 kg — —
0714400099 9.50 EUR / 100 kg — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0714401001 2.3% Free (17 programs) ["kg"]
0714402000 6% Free (17 programs) ["kg"]
071440 — — —
0714405000 Free — ["kg"]
0714406000 8.3% Free (17 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 0714.40?

Imports of Taro (Colocasia 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?

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What products does HS 071440 cover?

This subheading covers taro, scientifically known as *Colocasia spp.*, which are starchy root vegetables. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes the fresh or chilled tubers of the taro plant. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the European Union's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to the raw, unprocessed root vegetable, intended for consumption or further processing.

What falls outside HS 071440?

The following products are excluded from HS 071440: processed taro products such as taro flour (typically classified under heading 1106), taro chips or crisps (usually classified under heading 2008), or taro leaves and stems (which may fall under heading 0709 or 0712 depending on their condition). Similarly, other root vegetables like yams (Dioscorea spp.) or cassava (Manihot spp.) are classified under different subheadings within heading 0714 or other chapters, and are not considered taro for classification purposes.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 071440?

A common error is misclassifying taro products that have undergone any form of processing. For instance, dried taro, even if only dehydrated, might be incorrectly entered under 071440 when it should be classified under heading 0712 if it meets the criteria for dried vegetables. Another mistake involves confusing taro with other similar-looking root vegetables like yams or cassava, which have distinct HS classifications and potentially different duty rates, violating General Rule of Interpretation 1.

How should importers classify products under HS 071440?

The correct procedure for classifying taro under HS 071440 involves confirming the botanical identity of the product as *Colocasia spp.* and verifying that it is presented in its fresh or chilled state, without significant processing. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the explanatory notes for heading 0714. Accurate product descriptions and supporting documentation are crucial for correct classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 071440?

A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh taro, declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($1,500 USD × 0.10 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 0714.40.00.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 071440?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 071440, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), where originating taro from Canada or Mexico may be admitted duty-free. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) may also offer preferential rates for originating taro from eligible African countries, potentially to Free. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific AGOA certificate of origin for eligible countries, depending on the importing jurisdiction's requirements.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 071430 HS 071410 HS 071450 HS 071420 HS 071140 HS 071010

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

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for Taro (HS 071440) into the UK, EU, and US?

Import duty rates for Taro (HS 071440) vary by destination. For the UK, the standard duty is 7.90 GBP per 100 kg. In the EU, the standard duty is 9.50 EUR per 100 kg. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.3% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most current and precise rates, as these can be subject to change and preferential agreements.

Sources:

How is the import duty for Taro (HS 071440) calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty calculation for Taro (HS 071440) depends on whether the duty is based on weight (specific duty) or value (ad valorem duty). For example, if importing 1,000 kg of taro into the UK where the duty is 7.90 GBP per 100 kg, the calculation would be: (1000 kg / 100 kg) * 7.90 GBP = 79.00 GBP. If importing into the US with a 2.3% ad valorem duty and the declared value of the taro shipment is $5,000 USD, the duty would be: 2.3% of $5,000 USD = $115.00 USD. Always confirm the applicable duty basis and rate for the specific destination country.

What are the key classification criteria for Taro (HS 071440) to ensure correct customs declaration?

HS code 071440 specifically covers 'Taro (Colocasia spp.)'. The primary classification criterion is the botanical identity of the root and tuber, specifically belonging to the Colocasia genus. This distinguishes it from other root and tuber vegetables like yams (Dioscorea spp.) or cassava (Manihot spp.), which are classified under different HS codes (e.g., 071420 for yams, 071410 for potatoes). Importers must ensure that the product is indeed taro and not a similar-looking but botanically different root vegetable. Documentation such as a phytosanitary certificate or a Certificate of Origin may be required to verify the product's identity and origin.

Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for Taro (HS 071440), and what documentation is needed?

Preferential duty rates for Taro (HS 071440) are often available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For instance, the provided sample rates mention 'Free (A*,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)', which likely refers to preferential treatment under specific trade agreements where these country codes represent partner countries (e.g., AU for Australia, CL for Chile, KR for South Korea, etc.). To claim preferential duty rates, importers typically need to provide proof of origin, such as a Certificate of Origin issued by the exporting country's competent authority or an origin declaration on the invoice, depending on the specific requirements of the FTA and the importing country's customs regulations. It is essential to verify the specific FTA applicable to the origin of the taro and the destination country's requirements for claiming preferential treatment.

Are there specific import documentation requirements beyond the commercial invoice and packing list for Taro (HS 071440)?

Yes, besides the standard commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, imports of Taro (HS 071440) often require additional documentation to comply with agricultural and food safety regulations. These commonly include a phytosanitary certificate issued by the plant protection organization of the exporting country, certifying that the taro is free from pests and diseases. Depending on the importing country, import permits, health certificates, or specific declarations regarding food safety standards may also be necessary. Importers and customs brokers should consult the importing country's agricultural and food safety agencies for a comprehensive list of required documents to avoid delays or seizure of goods.