HS 121292 Locust beans (carob)

Quick Answer: Locust beans (carob) imported under HS 121292 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 5.10% ad valorem, and the US at a rate of Free or 4.4¢/kg, depending on the specific tariff provision. This HS code specifically covers locust beans, commonly known as carob, which are the edible pods of the carob tree. These are distinct from locust bean gum, which is classified elsewhere. Importers should be aware that while the UK offers duty-free entry, the EU and US have specific duty rates that may vary. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, providing crucial insights for trade compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1212920000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1212920000 5.10 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1212920000 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?

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What products does HS 121292 cover?

This subheading covers locust beans, commonly known as carob, in their natural state or dried. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes the pods and seeds of the *Ceratonia siliqua* tree. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to the whole or broken pods and seeds, intended for various uses including animal feed, food products, and as a source of gum. The key characteristic is the unprocessed or dried form of the carob fruit.

What falls outside HS 121292?

The following products are excluded from HS 121292: carob flour or meal (typically classified under HS 1106.30), carob gum or extracts (often classified under HS 1302.32), and roasted or otherwise processed carob beans intended for immediate consumption as a coffee substitute or confectionery ingredient. These processed forms have undergone further transformation beyond simple drying, placing them into different headings based on their specific processing and end-use, as detailed in the explanatory notes of the WCO HS Nomenclature.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 121292?

A common error is misclassifying carob products that have undergone significant processing. For instance, carob powder, which is finely ground carob beans, should generally be classified under HS 1106.30 (flours, meals and powders, of the dried leguminous vegetables of heading 1209 or of the dried fruits of heading 0804 or of the dried seeds of heading 1207). This mistake arises from overlooking General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), which often directs classification based on the essential character of the composite good or product after processing.

How should importers classify products under HS 121292?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 121292 involves verifying that the imported goods are indeed locust beans (carob) in their natural or dried state. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC database, and review the descriptive notes for heading 1212 and subheading 1212.92. Confirmation of the product's form (whole pods, broken pods, or seeds, dried) is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 121292?

A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of dried locust beans (carob pods) declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 1212.92.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 121292?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 121292, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which offers a rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) can provide duty-free entry for originating goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 121293 HS 121221 HS 121410 HS 121160 HS 121291 HS 121010

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 121292 (Locust beans/carob) into the United States?

For imports into the United States, HS code 121292 for locust beans (carob) generally carries a duty rate of Free under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. However, it is crucial to verify the specific rate applicable at the time of import, as trade agreements or specific proclamations can influence duty assessments. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the definitive rate. For example, if a shipment of 1000 kg of locust beans is imported, and the applicable duty rate is Free, the calculated duty would be $0.00.

How is the duty for HS code 121292 calculated if it's not an ad valorem rate?

While many duties are ad valorem (a percentage of the value), some commodities, including certain agricultural products, may have specific duties calculated by weight or volume. For HS code 121292, if a specific duty rate were applied, such as 4.4¢/kg, the calculation would be based on the net weight of the imported locust beans. For instance, if 500 kg of locust beans were imported at a rate of 4.4¢/kg (which is $0.044/kg), the total duty would be 500 kg * $0.044/kg = $22.00. It is essential to check the HTSUS for the precise unit of measure and rate.

What documentation is typically required for importing locust beans (carob) under HS code 121292?

Standard documentation for importing locust beans (carob) under HS code 121292 typically includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a phytosanitary certificate may be required to ensure the goods are free from pests and diseases, as locust beans are agricultural products. Importers should also be prepared to provide a declaration of origin. Always confirm specific requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.

Are there preferential duty rates for locust beans (carob) under trade agreements for HS code 121292?

Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for HS code 121292 depending on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing nation might qualify for reduced or zero duties. To claim preferential treatment, importers must typically provide proof of origin, such as a Certificate of Origin, that meets the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement. It is vital to consult the trade agreement details and the importing country's tariff schedule to determine eligibility and necessary documentation.

What are the classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 121292 (Locust beans/carob)?

HS code 121292 specifically covers 'Locust beans (carob)'. This classification applies to the dried pods of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua), whether whole, broken, or ground, intended for human or animal consumption or for industrial uses. The key criterion is that the product must be derived from the carob tree. Products that have undergone significant processing beyond simple drying or grinding, such as extraction of specific compounds or incorporation into compound food preparations, may be classified under different HS codes. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (HS) for detailed classification guidance.