HS 090411 Pepper

Quick Answer: Pepper imported under HS 090411 enters the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US duty-free. This HS code specifically covers "Pepper of the genus *Piper*, neither crushed nor ground." This includes whole peppercorns such as black pepper, white pepper, and green pepper. Significant trade considerations include the potential for specific import licenses or phytosanitary certificates depending on the exporting country and destination, as well as potential anti-dumping duties if applicable. According to CustomTariffs data, the most common tariff treatment across major markets for this classification is duty-free entry under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific country requirements beyond the basic tariff rate.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0904110000 0.00 % — —
0904110010 0.00 % — —
0904110090 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0904110000 0.00 % — —
0904110010 0.00 % — —
0904110090 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0904110020 — — ["kg"]
09041100 Free — —
0904110040 — — ["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 090411 cover?

This subheading covers "Pepper, neither crushed nor ground." According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes the dried berries of the plant *Piper nigrum*, commonly known as black pepper, white pepper, and green pepper, in their whole, unadulterated form. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system align with this definition, specifically excluding any processing beyond simple drying. This ensures that only whole peppercorns fall under this classification.

What falls outside HS 090411?

The following products are excluded from HS 090411: pepper that has been crushed or ground, as these are classified under HS 090412. Also excluded are other types of "pepper" that are not derived from *Piper nigrum*, such as bell peppers (classified in Chapter 07) or chili peppers (classified under HS 090420). Products that are mixed with other spices or ingredients, unless specifically provided for elsewhere, would also not be classified here. For instance, pre-mixed peppercorn blends would require further analysis.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 090411?

A common error is misclassifying crushed or ground pepper under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. HS 090411 explicitly states "neither crushed nor ground," meaning any processing that breaks down the peppercorn, even partially, necessitates classification under HS 090412. Importers must carefully verify the physical state of the product before assigning the code.

How should importers classify products under HS 090411?

The correct procedure for classifying pepper under HS 090411 involves a two-step verification process. First, confirm that the product is derived from the *Piper nigrum* plant. Second, and critically, ascertain that the peppercorns are in their whole, uncrushed, and unground state. Importers and customs brokers should consult the product's description, supplier documentation, and, if necessary, obtain a sample for physical inspection to ensure compliance with the WCO HS nomenclature and national tariff schedules.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 090411?

A shipment of 100 kilograms of whole black peppercorns, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $3.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.03 = $15.00). However, the US HTS also has a specific duty of $0.003 per kilogram. Therefore, the total duty would be the greater of the two: $15.00 (ad valorem) or $0.30 ($0.003/kg × 100 kg). The ad valorem duty of $15.00 applies. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 090411?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 090411, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which offers "Free" entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada and Mexico. For goods originating from Vietnam, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates. Documentation typically required includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP, depending on the exporting country and the specific provisions of the agreement.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 091011 HS 090811 HS 090112 HS 090831 HS 091020 HS 090122

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

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 090411 (Pepper)?

For HS code 090411, which covers 'Pepper of the genus Piper', the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the United States is Free. Many preferential trade agreements also offer duty-free entry. For example, under the USMCA, pepper originating from Canada or Mexico is also duty-free. It is crucial to consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (USHTS) and any applicable Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for the most current and specific rates based on origin.

How is HS code 090411 defined, and what criteria distinguish it from other pepper classifications?

HS code 090411 specifically covers 'Pepper of the genus Piper', which includes black pepper, white pepper, and green pepper, whether whole or ground. It is distinguished from other pepper types such as 'Capsicum' peppers (like chili peppers, paprika) which fall under HS code 090420. The key classification criterion is the botanical genus. Importers must ensure the product is indeed from the Piper genus to correctly use this code.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 090411?

When importing pepper under HS code 090411, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates. For food products, compliance with the destination country's food safety regulations, such as those enforced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is also mandatory. Importers should verify specific requirements with their customs broker or the relevant government agencies.

How are duties calculated for HS code 090411 if a duty were applicable, and can you provide an example?

While HS code 090411 generally carries a Free MFN duty rate in many major economies like the US, let's illustrate a hypothetical calculation if a duty were applied. Suppose a country had a 5% ad valorem duty rate on this code. If an importer brought in 1,000 kilograms of pepper valued at $5,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. In this hypothetical scenario, Duty = $5,000 × 5% = $250. However, it is critical to reiterate that for HS 090411, the actual MFN rate is typically 0.00% or Free, making the duty amount $0.00 in most common import scenarios.

Which major trade agreements commonly affect the import of pepper (HS 090411), and how do they impact duty rates?

Several trade agreements can impact the import of pepper under HS code 090411. For instance, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) generally provides duty-free treatment for originating goods. The European Union's Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) system also provides various preferential rates for goods originating from countries with which the EU has trade agreements (e.g., Generalized System of Preferences). The UK's trade tariff reflects similar arrangements post-Brexit. To benefit from these agreements, importers must possess a valid proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin, demonstrating that the pepper qualifies as originating from the partner country.