HS 121150 Ephedra
Quick Answer: Ephedra imported under HS 121150 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This Harmonized System (HS) code specifically covers ephedra plants, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried, and parts thereof, including roots. It is important to note that while duty rates are currently zero in these major markets, importers must be aware of potential regulatory controls or restrictions related to the use or sale of ephedra, particularly concerning its medicinal or stimulant properties. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information, highlighting the duty-free entry for this product in key jurisdictions.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1211500000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1211500000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1211500000 | 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 121150 cover?
This subheading covers "Ephedra" (also known as Ma Huang), which includes the plants of the genus Ephedra, specifically their stems and aerial parts. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is for plants and parts of plants used primarily for perfumery, pharmacy, or for insecticidal, fungicidal or similar purposes. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this specific code is dedicated to Ephedra species, excluding processed forms or extracts that might fall under different headings.
What falls outside HS 121150?
The following products are excluded from HS 121150: fully processed pharmaceutical preparations containing Ephedra, such as tablets or capsules, which are classified under Chapter 30. Also excluded are isolated active compounds derived from Ephedra, like ephedrine, which are typically classified under Chapter 29. Crude extracts or tinctures of Ephedra, unless specifically intended for perfumery, pharmacy, or insecticidal use as per the heading's scope, may also be classified elsewhere, often under Chapter 13 or Chapter 29 depending on their nature and processing level.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 121150?
A common error is misclassifying processed Ephedra products. For instance, if Ephedra stems are ground into a powder and then further processed into a standardized extract for pharmaceutical use, it would likely fall under Chapter 30, not HS 121150. Importers must carefully consider the degree of processing and the intended end-use. According to General Interpretative Rule 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, meaning the raw plant material is key for this subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 121150?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 121150 involves obtaining a detailed product description from the supplier, including the botanical name, form (e.g., dried stems, aerial parts), and intended use. Importers should consult official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to confirm the scope of HS 121150. Customs brokers play a vital role in verifying that the product is indeed raw Ephedra and not a processed derivative, ensuring compliance with all relevant notes and legal texts for accurate declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 121150?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of dried Ephedra stems, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 10.0% = $500.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 121150. Note that specific import restrictions may also apply.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 121150?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 121150, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying Ephedra originating from Canada or Mexico could be eligible for a 0% duty rate. Documentation required to claim this preference typically includes a USMCA-compliant commercial invoice and a certificate of origin or a self-certified origin statement. Other agreements may exist depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 121150 (Ephedra)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 121150 (Ephedra) is Free in the United States. For the European Union, the TARIC code typically shows a duty rate of 0.00% ad valorem. It is crucial to verify the specific duty rate applicable to your country of import, as rates can vary based on trade agreements and specific national tariff schedules. Always consult the official tariff database for the importing country.
What specific criteria define goods classified under HS code 121150 (Ephedra)?
HS code 121150 specifically covers 'Ephedra' (also known as Ma Huang) and its parts, including roots and aerial parts, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried. This classification is based on the botanical identification of the plant genus Ephedra. It is important to ensure that the imported product is indeed Ephedra and not a similar-looking plant that may fall under a different HS code. Documentation such as botanical certificates may be required to substantiate the classification.
Are there any specific documentation requirements for importing Ephedra (HS 121150)?
Beyond standard import documentation (e.g., commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list), importers of Ephedra (HS 121150) may encounter specific requirements depending on the importing country's regulations concerning herbal products and controlled substances. For instance, some countries may require a Certificate of Origin, phytosanitary certificates to prevent the introduction of pests or diseases, or specific declarations related to its intended use. It is advisable to consult with the relevant agricultural and health authorities in the destination country.
How is the import duty for Ephedra (HS 121150) calculated if a duty were applicable?
While the MFN duty rate for Ephedra (HS 121150) is Free in the US and 0.00% ad valorem in the EU, let's illustrate a hypothetical calculation if a duty rate of 5% ad valorem applied. If you imported 100 kg of dried Ephedra with a declared customs value of $500 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. In this hypothetical scenario: Duty = $500 USD × 5% = $25 USD. Since the actual duty is Free (0.00%), no duty would be payable in this specific example.
Do trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 121150 (Ephedra)?
For HS code 121150 (Ephedra), the duty rates in major markets like the US and EU are already Free or 0.00% under the standard MFN tariff. Therefore, while preferential trade agreements (e.g., USMCA, EU Free Trade Agreements) could theoretically offer further reductions or eliminate duties, the existing Free status means that these agreements typically do not provide an additional benefit for this specific HS code. However, it is always prudent to confirm the preferential status under any applicable trade agreement for the specific import transaction.