HS 090421 Fruit of the genus Capsicum or of the genus Pimenta
Quick Answer: Chili peppers and pimento peppers imported under HS 090421 enter the UK at 8.00% ad valorem, the EU at 9.60% ad valorem, and the US at 3¢/kg under the MFN rate. This HS code specifically covers the dried or ground fruits of the *Capsicum* genus (like chili peppers, cayenne, and paprika) and the *Pimenta* genus (such as allspice). Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on specific trade agreements or preferential origins, as indicated by the "Free" rates available in the US. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0904210000 | — | — | — |
| 0904211000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 0904219000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0904219020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0904219080 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0904211000 | 9.60 % | — | — |
| 0904219000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0904219020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0904219080 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0904210000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0904212000 | 3¢/kg | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 09042160 | 2.5¢/kg | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 0904216020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0904218000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 090421 | — | — | — |
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 0904.21?
Imports of Fruit of the genus Capsicum or of the genus Pimenta 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 090421 cover?
This subheading covers the dried fruit of the genus Capsicum or of the genus Pimenta, commonly known as chili peppers, bell peppers, and allspice. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes ground or unground forms. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to the dried fruits, irrespective of whether they are whole, crushed, or ground, as long as they retain their characteristic form and are intended for use as spices or seasonings.
What falls outside HS 090421?
The following products are excluded from HS 090421: fresh or chilled fruits of the genus Capsicum or Pimenta, which are typically classified under Chapter 07. Also excluded are sweet peppers (Capsicum annuum) when imported for culinary purposes and not solely as a spice, which may fall under Chapter 07. Furthermore, any products that have undergone significant processing beyond drying, such as being incorporated into sauces or prepared meals, would be classified according to their new form or function, not as dried spices under this heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 090421?
A common error is misclassifying fresh or chilled peppers under this subheading, which is reserved for dried fruits. This violates General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Another mistake is classifying pepper extracts or oleoresins, which are typically classified under Chapter 33 or Chapter 29 depending on their composition and intended use, rather than as dried peppers under heading 0904.
How should importers classify products under HS 090421?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 090421 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical state and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is the dried fruit of the genus Capsicum or Pimenta. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and cross-referencing with WCO Explanatory Notes is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 090421?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of dried chili powder, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 3.0% of $500 USD = $15.00. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 090421.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 090421?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 090421, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for duty-free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free rates for eligible goods from designated developing countries. 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 importing jurisdiction's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 090421 (dried or crushed capsicum or pimenta)?
Import duty rates for HS code 090421 vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 3.5% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply. For instance, goods from Australia (AU) may enter duty-free. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides the basis for these classifications, but national tariff schedules detail the specific duties.
How is the import duty for HS 090421 calculated if the duty is a combination of specific and ad valorem?
When a duty rate is a combination, such as a specific rate per kilogram plus an ad valorem percentage, both components are calculated and then summed. For example, if a country applies a duty of 3¢/kg plus 2.0% ad valorem on HS 090421, and you import 100 kg valued at $500 USD: The specific duty would be 100 kg * 3¢/kg = 300¢, or $3.00 USD. The ad valorem duty would be 2.0% of $500 USD = $10.00 USD. The total duty would be $3.00 + $10.00 = $13.00 USD.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 090421?
HS code 090421 covers the 'Fruit of the genus Capsicum or of the genus Pimenta', specifically when they are dried or crushed. This includes, but is not limited to, dried chili peppers, paprika, and allspice. The key criteria are the botanical origin (genus Capsicum or Pimenta) and the physical state (dried, whether whole, ground, or crushed). Products that are fresh, chilled, or frozen would fall under different HS codes (e.g., 0702 for tomatoes, which can include certain peppers, or specific codes for fresh peppers if available).
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS 090421?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 090421. For example, the United States has agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR) that may offer reduced or zero duty rates under specific conditions. The European Union's TARIC system details preferential rates under agreements with countries like Mexico (MX) or various African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) nations. Importers should verify eligibility and required documentation, such as Certificates of Origin, to claim these benefits. The EU's preferential rates are often listed with specific codes (e.g., 'E' for EFTA, 'IL' for Israel).
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 090421?
Standard import documentation for HS 090421 generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and any claimed preferential treatment, a Certificate of Origin may be required to prove the goods' country of origin and qualify for reduced or free trade agreement duties. Some countries may also require phytosanitary certificates to ensure the goods are free from pests and diseases, especially for agricultural products. Always check the specific import regulations of the destination country, often available through their customs authority's website (e.g., USITC for the US, UK Trade Tariff for the UK).