HS 090520 Crushed or ground
Quick Answer: Vanilla beans, crushed or ground, imported under HS 090520 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.00%, and the US at a rate of Free or 66¢/kg, depending on specific conditions. This classification specifically applies to vanilla that has undergone a process of crushing or grinding, distinguishing it from whole vanilla beans. Importers and customs brokers should carefully verify the exact duty rate applicable in the destination country, as the US rate can vary. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist in accurate declarations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0905200000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0905200000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0905200000 | Free | — | ["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?
What products does HS 090520 cover?
This subheading covers vanilla, crushed or ground, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. According to the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this classification applies to vanilla beans that have undergone a process of crushing or grinding, rendering them into a particulate form. This preparation is distinct from whole vanilla beans (090510) and is intended for direct use in flavorings and food production, often referred to as vanilla powder or ground vanilla.
What falls outside HS 090520?
The following products are excluded from HS 090520: whole vanilla beans, which are classified under HS 090510. Additionally, preparations or mixtures containing vanilla, such as vanilla extract or vanilla flavoring compounds where vanilla is not the sole or principal ingredient, are typically classified under different headings, often in Chapter 21 (Miscellaneous edible preparations). Vanilla oleoresins or essential oils derived from vanilla are also classified separately, usually under Chapter 33 (Essential oils and resinoids; perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 090520?
A common error is misclassifying vanilla products based on their intended use rather than their physical form. For instance, if vanilla is ground but then mixed with sugar to create a vanilla sugar, the entire product might be classified under a sugar preparation heading (Chapter 17) if the sugar is the predominant component by weight. Furthermore, confusing ground vanilla with vanilla extract, which is a liquid preparation, can lead to incorrect classification, as extracts are typically classified elsewhere, often under Chapter 21, based on General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3.
How should importers classify products under HS 090520?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 090520 involves a two-step process: first, confirm that the product is indeed vanilla; second, verify that it has been processed by crushing or grinding. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 0905. If the product is vanilla and in a crushed or ground state, it should be assigned to 090520. If it is whole, it belongs to 090510.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 090520?
A 10 kg shipment of ground vanilla beans, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $50.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5.0% × $500 USD = $25.00 USD. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 090520. Note that specific quantities might also be subject to additional duties in some jurisdictions.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 090520?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 090520. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating goods from Canada or Mexico can enter the US duty-free. Similarly, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Japan or Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement or a specific origin declaration is typically required, depending on the agreement and the importing country's regulations.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 090520 (Vanilla, crushed or ground)?
The import duty rates for HS code 090520, which covers crushed or ground vanilla, vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the general (MFN) duty rate is 6.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, the TARIC system may list a rate of 6.00% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff also indicates a duty rate of 6.00% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may apply. Always verify with the relevant customs authority.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 090520 if the duty is expressed as a specific rate, such as 66¢/kg?
When the duty is a specific rate, like 66¢/kg (cents per kilogram), the calculation is based on the net weight of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of 100 kilograms of crushed or ground vanilla is imported into a country with a duty rate of 66¢/kg, the total duty would be calculated as follows: 100 kg * 66¢/kg = 6600¢. This amount is then converted to the local currency, for example, $66.00 USD if the rate was specified in US cents. Importers must ensure accurate net weight declarations to avoid discrepancies.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 090520 (Crushed or ground)?
HS code 090520 applies specifically to vanilla that has been processed into a crushed or ground form. This means the vanilla beans have undergone mechanical processing to break them down into smaller particles. The key distinction from other vanilla classifications (like whole beans, HS 090510) is the physical state of the product. The degree of grinding or crushing is not precisely defined but must be sufficient to alter the form from whole beans. If the vanilla is in paste or extract form, it would likely fall under a different HS code (e.g., 2106).
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing crushed or ground vanilla under HS code 090520?
While specific documentation can vary by importing country and the origin of the goods, common requirements for importing crushed or ground vanilla (HS 090520) include a commercial invoice detailing the product, quantity, and value; 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 might also be necessary to ensure the product meets health and safety standards and is free from pests or diseases. Always confirm the exact requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 090520?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 090520 (crushed or ground vanilla) are often available under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, if vanilla is imported into the United States from a country with an FTA, such as the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), preferential rates might apply, potentially reducing the duty from the standard 6.00% MFN rate. Similarly, the European Union has numerous FTAs with countries worldwide that could offer reduced or zero duties on vanilla imports. Importers must verify the rules of origin for the specific FTA to ensure eligibility and obtain the necessary proof of origin documentation.