HS 120925 Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam., Lolium perenne L.) seeds
Quick Answer: Ryegrass seeds, specifically those of *Lolium multiflorum* Lam. and *Lolium perenne* L., imported under HS 120925 enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US applies rates of 1.4¢/kg or 6.6¢/kg depending on the country of origin, with many trade agreements providing duty-free entry. This classification covers seeds intended for sowing, crucial for agricultural and horticultural applications. Importers should verify specific origin-based duty rates for the US market. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these varied rates is essential for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1209250000 | — | — | — |
| 1209251000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 1209259000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1209250000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 1209251000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 1209259000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12092500 | 1.4¢/kg | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 1209250020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 1209250040 | — | — | ["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 1209.25?
Imports of Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam., Lolium perenne L.) seeds 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, and 15 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 120925 cover?
This subheading covers seeds of ryegrass, specifically identified as *Lolium multiflorum* Lam. (annual ryegrass) and *Lolium perenne* L. (perennial ryegrass). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is for seeds intended for sowing. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that only seeds of these specific ryegrass species, suitable for agricultural or horticultural propagation, fall under this code.
What falls outside HS 120925?
The following products are excluded from HS 120925: ryegrass seeds that have been processed beyond simple cleaning or grading for sowing, such as those treated with pesticides or coatings for non-sowing purposes, or seeds used for animal feed. Also excluded are seeds of other grass species not specifically listed as *Lolium multiflorum* or *Lolium perenne*, and any part of the ryegrass plant other than the seed. For instance, ryegrass hay or straw would be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 120925?
A common error is misclassifying ryegrass seeds that have undergone significant processing or treatment. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If ryegrass seeds are mixed with other seeds for a specific purpose, such as a lawn seed blend, they may fall under a different subheading depending on the predominant component or the specific blend's intended use, rather than solely HS 120925.
How should importers classify products under HS 120925?
The correct procedure for classifying ryegrass seeds under HS 120925 involves verifying the botanical species and ensuring the seeds are intended for sowing. Importers and customs brokers should consult the product's botanical name and confirm its intended use. Reviewing the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, for specific descriptions and any relevant notes or rulings is crucial to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 120925?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of perennial ryegrass seeds declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $2,500 = $125.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 1209.25.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 120925?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 120925, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, goods originating from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also receive preferential duty rates, often Free. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific importing country's requirements.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 120925 (Ryegrass seeds)?
Import duty rates for HS code 120925, covering seeds of ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam., Lolium perenne L.), vary by importing country and trade agreements. For example, the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS) lists a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of Free. However, other countries may have different rates. For instance, the EU TARIC system may apply specific rates, and the UK Trade Tariff also provides country-specific duties. Always consult the relevant national tariff schedule for the most accurate and up-to-date rates applicable to your specific import.
How is the import duty for ryegrass seeds (HS 120925) calculated if it's based on weight?
When the duty is calculated on a per-kilogram basis, the formula is straightforward: Duty = Rate per Kilogram × Net Weight in Kilograms. For example, if a country imposes a duty of 1.4¢/kg on ryegrass seeds and you import 10,000 kg, the total duty would be 1.4¢/kg × 10,000 kg = 14,000¢, which is equivalent to $140.00 USD. It is crucial to ensure the net weight declared is accurate and supported by shipping documents.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 120925?
HS code 120925 specifically covers seeds of ryegrass, including both Lolium multiflorum Lam. (Italian ryegrass) and Lolium perenne L. (Perennial ryegrass). The classification hinges on the botanical identity of the seeds. Importers must ensure that the seeds are indeed of these specified ryegrass species and are intended for sowing. Seed purity and germination tests may be required by customs authorities to verify compliance. This code excludes ryegrass seeds that have been otherwise worked or treated, which might fall under different headings.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for ryegrass seeds (HS 120925)?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for ryegrass seeds classified under HS 120925. For example, the U.S. has Free trade agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), Mexico (MX), and South Korea (KR), which often result in duty-free entry for qualifying agricultural products. The EU also has numerous preferential agreements. The UK's trade arrangements post-Brexit, including the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, also specify preferential rates. Importers must verify the origin of the goods and ensure they meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement to claim preferential treatment. Documentation such as a Certificate of Origin is typically required.
What documentation is typically required when importing ryegrass seeds (HS 120925)?
When importing ryegrass seeds under HS code 120925, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, customs authorities may require a phytosanitary certificate issued by the plant protection organization of the exporting country to ensure the seeds are free from pests and diseases. Depending on the importing country's regulations and any claimed preferential trade agreements, a Certificate of Origin may also be necessary. Some jurisdictions might also request seed analysis certificates detailing purity and germination rates.