HS 090821 Mace

Quick Answer: Mace imported under HS 090821 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This HS code specifically covers mace, the aril or outer covering of the nutmeg seed, in its whole or ground form. Mace is a spice used for flavoring food and beverages. Importers should be aware that while duty rates are currently zero in these major markets, other import requirements such as phytosanitary certificates may apply depending on the country of origin and destination. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist trade professionals.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0908210000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0908210000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0908210000 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?

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What products does HS 090821 cover?

This subheading covers mace, which is the aril, or outer lacy covering, of the nutmeg seed. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, mace is derived from the fruit of the *Myristica fragrans* tree. Official definitions, such as those found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, confirm that this classification applies to mace in its dried form, whether whole or ground, intended for culinary or medicinal use, and excludes the nutmeg seed itself.

What falls outside HS 090821?

The following products are excluded from HS 090821: nutmeg (the seed of the *Myristica fragrans* tree), which is classified under HS 090822; other spices not derived from the *Myristica fragrans* tree; and products containing mace as a minor ingredient where the overall character is not mace, such as spice blends where mace is not the predominant component. For example, a curry powder blend would be classified based on its primary spice component, not mace.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 090821?

A common error is misclassifying mace with nutmeg, as both originate from the same fruit but are distinct parts. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System emphasizes that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also mistakenly classify mace that has been subjected to significant processing beyond drying or grinding, which could alter its classification under Chapter 21 for prepared foodstuffs.

How should importers classify products under HS 090821?

The correct procedure for classifying mace involves verifying that the product is indeed the aril of the nutmeg seed and not the seed itself. 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 0908. Confirming the product's origin and form (e.g., whole, broken, or ground) is crucial for accurate classification and duty assessment.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 090821?

A shipment of 100 kilograms of whole dried mace, declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($1,500 USD × 10% = $150.00). It is important to note that specific countries may have different duty rates or preferential treatment.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 090821?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 090821. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), mace originating from Canada or Mexico may enter the US duty-free. Similarly, preferential rates or duty-free entry might be available for mace from countries participating in the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or the UK's similar scheme, often requiring a EUR.1 movement certificate or a self-certified origin statement, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 090811 HS 090831 HS 090411 HS 090122 HS 090619 HS 090822

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

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 090821 (Mace)?

For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 090821 (Mace) is Free. Preferential duty rates under various trade agreements may also apply. For example, under the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), the duty is also Free. It is crucial to consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the most current and specific rates applicable to your country of origin.

How is the duty for Mace (HS 090821) calculated, and can you provide an example?

Mace (HS 090821) is typically dutiable on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value of the goods). Since the MFN duty rate is Free, the calculated duty is $0.00. For illustrative purposes, if Mace had a hypothetical duty rate of 5% ad valorem and an entered value of $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Entered Value) × 0.05 (Duty Rate) = $500 (Duty Amount). However, for HS 090821, the duty is Free.

What are the key classification criteria for Mace under HS code 090821?

HS code 090821 specifically covers 'Mace, neither crushed nor ground'. Mace is the aril, or lacy covering, of the nutmeg seed. To be classified under this code, the product must be the whole, intact aril of the nutmeg fruit, and it must not have undergone any processing such as crushing or grinding. If mace is crushed or ground, it would be classified under HS code 090822.

What documentation is typically required for importing Mace (HS 090821)?

Standard import documentation for Mace (HS 090821) includes 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 required, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed. Phytosanitary certificates might also be necessary to ensure the product meets the importing country's agricultural and plant health regulations. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.

Which trade agreements commonly provide preferential duty rates for Mace (HS 090821) into the United States?

The United States has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that can offer preferential duty rates for goods like Mace (HS 090821). For instance, the CAFTA-DR agreement typically grants Free entry for mace originating from member countries. Other agreements, such as those with Australia, Chile, or South Korea, might also provide duty-free or reduced-duty access, provided the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in each agreement. Importers must consult the HTSUS and the specific text of relevant trade agreements to confirm eligibility and claim preferential treatment.