HS 090121 Coffee, roasted

Quick Answer: Coffee, roasted, imported under HS 090121 enters the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 7.50%, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers coffee beans that have undergone a roasting process, excluding decaffeinated coffee. Importers should be aware that while the US offers duty-free entry for roasted coffee, the UK and EU apply ad valorem duties. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country rates and any potential preferential trade agreements that could alter these obligations. Exporters should ensure accurate classification to avoid delays and penalties.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0901210000 6.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0901210000 7.50 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
09012100 Free — —
0901210020 — — ["kg"]
0901210029 — — ["kg"]
0901210049 — — ["kg"]
0901210065 — — ["kg"]

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.

How Has Trade Volume Developed?

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 090121 cover?

This subheading covers coffee, roasted, but not containing coffee substitutes, irrespective of whether it is decaffeinated or not. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to coffee beans that have undergone the roasting process, which develops their characteristic aroma and flavor. Official definitions, such as those found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm that this category specifically excludes any coffee that has been mixed with other substances or has had its caffeine removed through a process that alters its fundamental nature beyond simple roasting.

What falls outside HS 090121?

The following products are excluded from HS 090121: coffee that has been decaffeinated using methods that significantly alter its chemical composition beyond simple removal of caffeine, coffee mixed with chicory or other substitutes, and coffee in instant form (which falls under HS 2101.12). Unroasted coffee beans, even if they are green coffee beans intended for roasting, are classified under HS 0901.11 or 0901.19. Furthermore, coffee extracts, essences, and concentrates, regardless of their form, are classified elsewhere, typically under HS 2101.12.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 090121?

A common error is misclassifying decaffeinated coffee. While HS 090121 includes decaffeinated roasted coffee, the specific decaffeination process can sometimes lead to classification under other headings if it involves significant chemical alteration or the addition of other substances, contrary to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3. Another mistake is confusing roasted coffee beans with ground roasted coffee, which may have different subheadings depending on the jurisdiction. Importers must ensure the product is solely roasted coffee beans and not a blend or a processed derivative.

How should importers classify products under HS 090121?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 090121 involves a thorough examination of the product's characteristics and processing. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the coffee has been roasted. If it has, they must then ascertain if any coffee substitutes have been added or if the decaffeination process has altered the product beyond the scope of this subheading. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing explanatory notes is crucial for accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 090121?

A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of Colombian Supremo roasted coffee beans, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 1.75% ad valorem applied to the declared value ($5,000 USD × 0.0175 = $87.50) plus a specific duty of $0.10 per kilogram ($0.10/kg × 1,000 kg = $100.00), totaling $187.50. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 090121?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 090121, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible products from developing countries, such as Vietnam. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 090111 HS 090112 HS 210130 HS 090122 HS 090921 HS 090421

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 090121 (Coffee, roasted)?

The import duty rates for HS code 090121, covering roasted coffee, vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. However, other countries may have different rates. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff lists a duty rate of "Free" for most origins, but specific preferential agreements might apply. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.

What distinguishes roasted coffee under HS 090121 from other coffee classifications?

HS code 090121 specifically covers coffee, roasted, which has undergone a thermal process to develop its characteristic aroma and flavor. This distinguishes it from unroasted coffee (HS 090111 and 090112), coffee substitutes containing coffee (HS 090190), and decaffeinated coffee (which may fall under 090121 if roasted, or 090111/090112 if unroasted and decaffeinated, depending on specific tariff notes).

What documentation is typically required for importing roasted coffee under HS 090121?

Importers and customs brokers should be prepared to provide a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. A certificate of origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Depending on the importing country's regulations, phytosanitary certificates or other health and safety documentation related to food products might also be necessary to ensure compliance with import requirements.

How is the import duty for roasted coffee (HS 090121) calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty calculation for HS 090121 depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (per unit of weight or volume). Let's assume a hypothetical scenario where a country applies a 5% ad valorem duty rate on roasted coffee. If an importer brings in 1,000 kg of roasted coffee valued at $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Value × Duty Rate = $5,000 USD × 5% = $250 USD. In cases where a specific duty applies, such as $0.50 per kg, the calculation would be: Duty = Quantity × Specific Duty Rate = 1,000 kg × $0.50/kg = $500 USD. Always verify the applicable duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or a combination) from the importing country's tariff.

Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 090121?

Several trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 090121. For example, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Canada and Mexico under the USMCA, which often provide duty-free entry for originating goods. The European Union has numerous Association Agreements and Free Trade Agreements with countries worldwide, potentially reducing or eliminating duties under TARIC. Similarly, the UK has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. To claim preferential rates, importers must ensure the coffee originates from a country party to the agreement and possess the required proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or an origin declaration.