HS 080280 Areca nuts

Quick Answer: Areca nuts imported under HS 080280 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a rate of 1.3¢/kg or Free for certain preferential trade partners, with a general MFN rate of 5.5¢/kg. This HS code specifically covers areca nuts, also known as betel nuts, which are the seeds of the areca palm. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on the country of origin and specific trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist in compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0802800000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0802800000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0802801000 1.3¢/kg Free (17 programs) ["kg"]
0802802000 5¢/kg 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 0802.80?

Imports of Areca nuts 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 080280 cover?

This subheading covers areca nuts, also known as betel nuts, which are the seeds of the areca palm (Areca catechu). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is for nuts of the genus Areca, whether or not shelled or peeled. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category is specifically for these particular nuts, excluding other types of palm nuts or seeds.

What falls outside HS 080280?

The following products are excluded from HS 080280: other nuts of the genus Areca that are not specifically identified as areca nuts, such as coconut (classified under HS 0801), and other palm products not derived from the areca palm. Additionally, processed forms of areca nuts, such as those that have undergone significant chemical treatment or are incorporated into composite goods, would be classified elsewhere based on their predominant characteristic or further processing, rather than as raw areca nuts.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 080280?

A common error is misclassifying areca nuts that have been subjected to minor processing, such as drying or shelling, as raw areca nuts. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System emphasizes classification by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If the nuts are presented in a form that suggests further processing beyond simple shelling or drying, or if they are mixed with other ingredients, a different classification might be warranted, potentially under Chapter 21 for food preparations.

How should importers classify products under HS 080280?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 080280 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and presentation. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to understand the precise wording of heading 0802 and subheading 080280. Verification of the product's botanical origin and ensuring it is indeed the seed of the areca palm, without significant further processing, is crucial for accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 080280?

A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of dried areca nuts, 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 customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which specifies the applicable duty for areca nuts under HS code 080280.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 080280?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 080280, including the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries, which can offer duty-free entry or reduced rates. For example, areca nuts originating from India or Vietnam under the GSP program could benefit from preferential rates. Documentation required typically includes a GSP Form A certificate of origin issued by the exporting country's competent authority to claim these reduced duties in the importing country.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 080270 HS 080261 HS 080292 HS 080131 HS 080251 HS 080121

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

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 080280 (Areca nuts) into the United States?

The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for Areca nuts (HS 080280) into the United States is 0.00% ad valorem. For imports from countries with specific trade agreements, such as Australia (AU) under the Australia-United States Trade Agreement, the duty rate is Free. Always verify current rates on the US International Trade Commission (USITC) website as these can be subject to change.

How is the import duty for Areca nuts calculated if a specific rate per kilogram applies?

While the US MFN rate is ad valorem, some countries apply specific duties. For example, if a country's tariff schedule listed a rate of 1.3¢/kg for Areca nuts, and an importer brings in 1000 kg, the duty would be calculated as 1000 kg * 1.3¢/kg = 1300¢, which equals $13.00. This specific duty is applied per unit of weight, regardless of the value of the goods. Always consult the destination country's official tariff schedule for the applicable duty calculation method.

What documentation is typically required for importing Areca nuts under HS code 080280?

Standard documentation for importing Areca nuts (HS 080280) generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations, a phytosanitary certificate may be required to ensure the nuts are free from pests and diseases. Importers should also be aware of any specific import licenses or permits mandated by the importing country's agricultural or food safety authorities.

Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for Areca nuts (HS 080280) into the European Union?

The European Union's TARIC system details preferential duty rates. For HS 080280, preferential rates are often available for countries with Association Agreements or Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the EU. For instance, imports from countries like Albania (A), Bosnia and Herzegovina (BH), Chile (CL), or South Korea (KR) may benefit from reduced or zero duty rates under their respective agreements. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin to claim these preferential rates. Consult the EU TARIC database for specific country eligibility and rates.

What are the classification criteria for Areca nuts under HS code 080280?

HS code 080280 specifically covers 'Areca nuts (betel nuts), fresh or dried, whether or not shelled or peeled'. The classification hinges on the product being identifiable as Areca nuts, regardless of whether they are in their natural state (fresh or dried) or have undergone preliminary processing like shelling (removal of the outer husk) or peeling (removal of the inner skin). Products that are significantly further processed, such as roasted or candied, would likely fall under different HS codes.