HS 120921 Seeds of forage plants

Quick Answer: Seeds of forage plants imported under HS 120921 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.50%, and the US with varied rates including 1.5¢/kg and Free for certain trade partners. This code specifically covers seeds of forage plants, such as clover, alfalfa, and grass seeds, used for animal feed or pasture. Importers should note the significant duty-free access available in the US for specific countries, which can impact sourcing decisions. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country-of-origin preferential rates.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1209210000 2.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1209210000 2.50 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
12092100 1.5¢/kg Free (17 programs) —
1209210020 — — ["kg"]
1209210040 — — ["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 1209.21?

Imports of Seeds of forage plants 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 120921 cover?

This subheading covers seeds of forage plants, specifically those intended for sowing. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes seeds of grasses, legumes, and other herbaceous plants primarily cultivated for fodder or pasture. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to seeds of plants like alfalfa, clover, ryegrass, and fescues, provided they are suitable for sowing and not for consumption or industrial use.

What falls outside HS 120921?

The following products are excluded from HS 120921: seeds intended for human or animal consumption, seeds for ornamental purposes (which fall under other headings), and seeds that have undergone significant processing beyond cleaning or simple packaging for retail sale. For instance, seeds that have been pelleted, coated with pesticides, or mixed with fertilizers would likely be classified elsewhere. Similarly, seeds of plants not primarily considered forage, such as cereal grains for food production, are not included in this subheading.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 120921?

A common error is misclassifying seeds based on their end-use rather than their inherent nature and intended purpose as per General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1. For example, seeds of a plant that can be used for both forage and human consumption (like certain types of peas or beans) may be incorrectly classified under Chapter 7 if their primary intended use is food. Importers must ensure the seeds are specifically identified and presented for sowing as forage plants, not for other purposes.

How should importers classify products under HS 120921?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 120921 involves a thorough examination of the product's characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Key considerations include verifying that the seeds are of forage plant varieties and are suitable for sowing. Reviewing product specifications, supplier declarations, and potentially laboratory analysis can confirm the classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 120921?

A shipment of 100 kilograms of Alfalfa seeds (Medicago sativa) declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.03 = $15.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which is the standard rate for countries without preferential trade agreements.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 120921?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 120921, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which offers a rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) can provide duty-free entry for eligible originating goods from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP benefits, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 120922 HS 120925 HS 120910 HS 120721 HS 120930 HS 120924

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 120921, 'Seeds of forage plants'?

The import duty rates for HS code 120921 can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.50% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various trade agreements can be as low as Free (e.g., for goods originating from Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), Mexico (MX) under USMCA, and others). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates. The USITC provides detailed tariff information for the United States.

How is the duty for HS code 120921 calculated if it's based on weight?

Some countries apply specific duties calculated per unit of weight. For instance, if a country's tariff imposes a rate of 1.5¢/kg for HS 120921, and an importer brings in 1000 kg of forage plant seeds, the duty calculation would be: 1000 kg * 1.5¢/kg = 1500¢, which converts to $15.00. This is in addition to or instead of any ad valorem (percentage of value) duties, depending on the tariff structure. Always verify if the duty is ad valorem, specific, or a combination.

What are the key classification criteria for seeds to be classified under HS 120921?

HS code 120921 specifically covers 'Seeds of forage plants'. This means the seeds must be intended for cultivation as fodder or pasture. Classification hinges on the intended use and botanical identity. Seeds of common forage plants like alfalfa (lucerne), clover, and various grasses typically fall under this code, provided they are for sowing. Seeds intended for human or animal consumption (as feed, not for propagation) would be classified elsewhere, often in Chapter 10 (cereals) or Chapter 12, subheading 1214 (swedes, turnips, forage plants).

What documentation is typically required for importing seeds under HS code 120921?

Importing seeds, including those for forage plants (HS 120921), often requires specific documentation beyond standard commercial invoices and bills of lading. Importers should be prepared to provide a Phytosanitary Certificate issued by the plant protection organization of the exporting country, confirming the seeds are free from pests and diseases. Depending on the destination country's regulations, additional documents like a Seed Analysis Certificate (detailing purity, germination rate, and species) or import permits may be necessary. Consult the importing country's agricultural or customs authority for precise requirements.

Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 120921?

Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 120921. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods originating from Canada and Mexico may benefit from reduced or free duties. Similarly, agreements like the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like South Korea (KR) or Singapore (SG) can lead to duty-free or reduced-duty imports into the EU. Importers should verify the rules of origin for the specific trade agreement to claim preferential treatment.