HS 091020 Saffron
Quick Answer: Saffron imported under HS 091020 enters the US duty-free, the UK at 0.00%, and the EU at 0.00% (most favored nation rates). This HS code specifically covers saffron, which refers to the dried stigmas of the *Crocus sativus* flower, used as a spice and coloring agent. Importers should be aware that while the primary duty rates are low across these major markets, specific origin or preferential trade agreements might influence final duty calculations. According to CustomTariffs data, this classification is generally straightforward, but accurate product description is crucial for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0910200000 | — | — | — |
| 0910201000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0910209000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0910200000 | — | — | — |
| 0910201000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0910209000 | 8.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0910200000 | 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 091020 cover?
This subheading covers saffron, which is the dried stigmas of the *Crocus sativus* flower. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, it specifically refers to saffron, whether in threads or ground. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this specific classification for the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus, valued for their distinct color, aroma, and flavor, and used primarily as a spice and food coloring agent.
What falls outside HS 091020?
The following products are excluded from HS 091020: other spices falling under heading 0910, such as vanilla, curry, and mixtures containing saffron but where saffron is not the predominant component by value or character. Additionally, artificial colorings or flavorings that mimic saffron's properties but are not derived from the *Crocus sativus* flower are classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 32 for colorants or Chapter 21 for food preparations, and are not considered saffron for tariff purposes.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 091020?
A common error is misclassifying saffron products that are blended with other spices or ingredients. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and GRI 3, if a product is a mixture, it should be classified based on its essential character. For instance, a saffron-infused oil or a spice blend where saffron is a minor component might be classified under a different heading, such as 1515 for fixed vegetable oils or 2103 for sauces and seasonings, rather than solely as saffron.
How should importers classify products under HS 091020?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 091020 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and presentation. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product consists solely of the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus, whether in whole threads or ground. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and referencing any relevant explanatory notes or rulings is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 091020?
A 1-kilogram package of high-grade saffron threads, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.05 = $250.00). This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which specifies ad valorem rates for saffron.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 091020?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 091020, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Under USMCA, originating saffron from Mexico or Canada may be admitted duty-free. For CPTPP, originating saffron from countries like Australia or Vietnam could also benefit from preferential rates, often Free. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP, depending on the importing country's regulations.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 091020 (Saffron) into the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom?
For the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for saffron (HS 091020) is 0.00% ad valorem, as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is also 0.00% ad valorem. For the United Kingdom, the UK Trade Tariff lists a duty rate of 0.00% ad valorem. It is crucial to verify these rates against the most current tariff schedules as they can be subject to change.
What specific criteria define saffron for HS classification under code 091020?
HS code 091020 specifically covers 'Saffron, including saffron and its preparations'. For classification purposes, saffron refers to the dried stigmas of the flower of the Crocus sativus L.. The product must be the stigmas themselves, which are the thread-like, reddish-orange stigmas. Preparations containing saffron would also fall under this code, provided saffron remains the characteristic element. This distinction is important to differentiate from other spices or floral products.
What documentation is typically required for importing saffron (HS 091020) into the US, EU, or UK?
Standard import documentation for saffron (HS 091020) generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates are being claimed under a trade agreement. Food safety and quality certifications might also be requested by customs or regulatory authorities in the destination country to ensure compliance with import standards.
How is the import duty for saffron calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for saffron (HS 091020) is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate were 8.50% (hypothetically, as current rates are 0%), and you imported saffron valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 8.50% (duty rate) = $850 USD. Since the current MFN rates for the US, EU, and UK are 0.00%, no duty would be payable on such a shipment under these standard rates.
Do any major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for saffron (HS 091020) into the US, EU, or UK?
While the standard MFN duty rates for saffron (HS 091020) into the US, EU, and UK are currently 0.00%, it's important to understand that trade agreements can still be relevant. For instance, if a country has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US, EU, or UK, and saffron originates from that country, importers may need to provide a certificate of origin to claim preferential treatment. Even with a 0% duty rate, adhering to the rules of origin under an FTA is crucial for compliance and to ensure eligibility for any potential future benefits or to avoid penalties if regulations change. Importers should consult the specific terms of relevant FTAs and the origin rules for HS 091020.