HS 110820 Inulin

Quick Answer: Inulin imported under HS 110820 enters the UK at 18.00%, the EU at 19.20%, and the US at 2.6% (MFN). This HS code specifically covers inulin, a type of soluble dietary fiber often derived from chicory or Jerusalem artichokes, used as a prebiotic ingredient in food products and supplements. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates available in the US for specific trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the varying tariff burdens across major markets for this specialized ingredient.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1108200000 18.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1108200000 19.20 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1108200000 2.6% Free (17 programs) ["kg"]

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 1108.20?

Imports of Inulin 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 14 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 110820 cover?

This subheading covers inulin, a natural polysaccharide found in various plants, primarily chicory and Jerusalem artichokes, which is used as a dietary fiber and prebiotic. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 1108 specifically pertains to starches and inulin. Subheading 1108.20 isolates inulin from other starches. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to purified inulin, whether in solid or liquid form, intended for food, pharmaceutical, or industrial applications.

What falls outside HS 110820?

The following products are excluded from HS 110820: other types of dietary fibers such as cellulose or pectin, which are classified under different headings; fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and other oligosaccharides, which are generally classified under HS 2940; and crude plant extracts containing inulin but not purified, which would fall under Chapter 30 or 33 depending on their intended use. For instance, dried chicory roots, even if rich in inulin, are typically classified under HS 1212.99.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 110820?

A common error is misclassifying inulin blends or products where inulin is a minor component. According to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, when goods are mixed or composed of different materials or components, classification is determined by the essential character of the goods. Importers may mistakenly classify a food product containing a small percentage of inulin under 110820, when it should be classified based on its primary ingredient or function, such as a biscuit under Chapter 19.

How should importers classify products under HS 110820?

The correct procedure for classifying inulin under HS 110820 involves verifying the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. They should confirm that the product is indeed inulin, as defined by the WCO, and not a mixture or a less processed form. Reviewing product specifications, certificates of analysis, and supplier declarations is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 110820?

A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of purified inulin, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $350.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is: $5,000 (declared value) × 0.035 (duty rate) = $175.00. If the product were also subject to a specific duty, for example, $0.35 per kilogram, the total duty would be $175.00 (ad valorem) + ($0.35 × 1,000 kg) = $525.00.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 110820?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 110820, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Under USMCA, originating inulin from Canada or Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. For CPTPP, originating inulin from countries like Japan or Singapore may also benefit from reduced or zero duty rates, requiring a CPTPP Certificate of Origin.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 110811 HS 110813 HS 110819 HS 110812 HS 110814 HS 110220

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

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 110820 (Inulin)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 110820 (Inulin) is typically 3.5% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods originating from countries with which the importing country has trade agreements. For example, under certain agreements, the duty rate can be Free (0%) for imports from countries such as Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), among others. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify the rules of origin to claim preferential treatment.

How is the import duty for Inulin (HS 110820) calculated, and can you provide an example?

The import duty for Inulin (HS 110820) is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem, and you import 1,000 kilograms of inulin with a declared customs value of $5,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: 3.5% of $5,000 = $175 USD. Some tariffs may also include specific duties (e.g., per unit weight) or a combination, but ad valorem is most common for this product. Always confirm the applicable duty basis and rate in the destination country's tariff schedule.

What are the key classification criteria for Inulin under HS code 110820?

HS code 110820 specifically covers 'Inulin'. Inulin is a polysaccharide found in many plants, primarily in the roots or tubers, and is a form of stored carbohydrate. For classification purposes, the product must be identifiable as inulin, typically derived from sources like chicory or Jerusalem artichokes. It is usually imported in powder or granular form. If the product is a mixture containing inulin with other substances, or if it has undergone significant processing beyond simple extraction and purification, a different HS code might apply. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for heading 1108 is recommended for detailed guidance.

What documentation is typically required for importing Inulin (HS 110820)?

When importing Inulin under HS code 110820, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the intended use of the inulin (e.g., for food or pharmaceutical applications), additional documents may be necessary. These could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, a phytosanitary certificate if required for agricultural products, and potentially laboratory analysis certificates to confirm the product's identity and purity. Importers should verify specific requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.

Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for Inulin (HS 110820)?

Several major trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for Inulin (HS 110820), often reducing or eliminating duties. Examples include agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which may offer preferential rates for goods originating from these North American countries. Other significant agreements that could impact duty rates include the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and bilateral agreements between the EU and various countries (e.g., EU-Canada CETA). The specific preferential rate and eligibility depend on the product meeting the rules of origin stipulated in each agreement. Importers must obtain a valid certificate of origin from the exporter to benefit from these agreements.