HS 090720 Crushed or ground
Quick Answer: Cloves, crushed or ground, imported under HS 090720 enter the UK at 8.00% ad valorem, the EU at 8.00% ad valorem, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers cloves that have undergone a physical process of crushing or grinding, distinguishing them from whole cloves (HS 090710). Importers and customs brokers should note that while the US offers duty-free entry, the UK and EU apply a significant ad valorem duty. This distinction is crucial for accurate tariff declaration and cost calculation. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in international trade compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0907200000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0907200000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0907200000 | 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 090720 cover?
This subheading covers cloves that have been physically altered from their whole form into a crushed or ground state. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 0907, this includes cloves processed through milling, grinding, or crushing to achieve a finer consistency. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses all forms of processed cloves, provided they retain the essential character of cloves and are not further compounded with other substances.
What falls outside HS 090720?
The following products are excluded from HS 090720: whole cloves (classified under HS 0907.10), and cloves that have undergone other processing such as extraction of essential oils or inclusion in mixed spice preparations. For instance, pure clove oil would be classified under Chapter 33, and a blend of spices containing ground cloves would be classified based on the predominant component or under a specific heading for mixed condiments and seasonings. The key distinction is that the product must be solely ground or crushed cloves.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 090720?
A common error is misclassifying ground cloves that are part of a pre-mixed spice blend. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and GRI 3(b) are crucial here; if a product is a mixture or composite good, classification is determined by the essential character. Importers may incorrectly assign ground cloves to HS 090720 when the blend's essential character is derived from other spices, or when the blend is specifically enumerated elsewhere in the tariff schedule, such as under heading 2103 for sauces and seasonings.
How should importers classify products under HS 090720?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 090720 involves first identifying the commodity as cloves. Subsequently, determine if the cloves have been crushed or ground. Consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to confirm the specific subheading. If the product is solely crushed or ground cloves, HS 090720 is appropriate. If it is a mixture, further analysis based on GRI rules is required.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 090720?
A 100 kg shipment of ground cloves, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.035 = $17.50). However, if the shipment were valued at $1,000 USD, the duty would be $35.00 ($1,000 USD × 0.035). The duty is calculated based on the ad valorem rate applied to the customs value.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 090720?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 090720. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may enter the U.S. duty-free. Similarly, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) can offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a certificate of origin, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 090720 (Crushed or ground cloves)?
The import duty rates for HS code 090720, which covers crushed or ground cloves, vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 8.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is free. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a duty rate of Free for this classification. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive duty rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 090720 if the duty rate is 8.00% ad valorem?
If the applicable duty rate is 8.00% ad valorem, the duty is calculated based on the customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of crushed cloves has a customs value of $10,000, the duty amount would be $10,000 (customs value) × 0.08 (8.00% duty rate) = $800. Importers and customs brokers must ensure accurate valuation of the goods to correctly calculate the ad valorem duty.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS code 090720 under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for HS code 090720 depending on the origin of the goods and applicable trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country might qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. Importers should verify the rules of origin and the specific provisions of FTAs (e.g., USMCA, EU FTAs) to determine eligibility for preferential treatment. Documentation such as a Certificate of Origin is typically required.
What documentation is typically required for importing crushed or ground cloves under HS code 090720?
Standard documentation for importing crushed or ground cloves (HS 090720) generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the origin of the goods, additional documents may be necessary. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates, a phytosanitary certificate to ensure the goods meet health and safety standards for agricultural products, and potentially a laboratory analysis report confirming the product's composition and absence of contaminants. Always consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list of requirements.
What distinguishes HS code 090720 (crushed or ground) from whole cloves (HS 090710)?
The primary distinction between HS code 090720 and 090710 lies in the physical state of the cloves. HS code 090710 specifically covers 'Cloves, whole, unground or uncrushed'. HS code 090720, conversely, is for 'Cloves, crushed or ground'. This classification is based on the physical processing of the spice. Importers must ensure their goods are classified according to their actual form upon importation. If cloves are mechanically processed to break them down into smaller particles, they fall under 090720. If they remain intact, they are classified under 090710.