HS 151211 Sunflower-seed or safflower oil and fractions thereof
Quick Answer: Sunflower-seed or safflower oil and fractions thereof imported under HS 151211 enters the UK at 6.00%, the EU with varying rates, and the US at 1.7¢/kg + 3.4% (MFN). This classification covers crude, semi-refined, or refined oils derived from sunflower seeds or safflower, including their fractions. Importers should note that preferential trade agreements can significantly alter US duty rates, with some countries benefiting from duty-free entry. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country rates and any applicable trade agreements for accurate customs declarations and duty calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1512110000 | — | — | — |
| 1512111000 | — | — | — |
| 1512119100 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 1512119900 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1512110000 | — | — | — |
| 1512111000 | — | — | — |
| 1512119100 | — | — | — |
| 1512119900 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15121100 | 1.7¢/kg + 3.4% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 1512110025 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 1512110035 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 1512110040 | — | — | ["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 1512.11?
Imports of Sunflower-seed or safflower oil and fractions thereof 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 151211 cover?
This subheading covers crude sunflower-seed or safflower oil and their fractions, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (WCO HS) Nomenclature. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this includes oils obtained from the seeds of sunflower (Helianthus annuus) or safflower (Carthamus tinctorius), in their unrefined state or as separated fractions. For instance, crude sunflower oil intended for further processing would fall here, provided it meets the criteria for being "crude" and not further refined.
What falls outside HS 151211?
The following products are excluded from HS 151211: refined sunflower-seed or safflower oil, which are classified under HS 151219. Also excluded are oils that have undergone any significant chemical modification beyond simple separation of fractions, such as hydrogenation or esterification. For example, fully hydrogenated sunflower oil, used in confectionery, would be classified elsewhere, typically under HS 151219 or a more specific heading depending on the degree of processing. Blends of sunflower oil with other oils, unless specifically provided for, would also be classified based on the predominant oil or under a different heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 151211?
A common error is misclassifying refined or partially refined oils under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If an oil has undergone refining processes that alter its chemical or physical characteristics beyond simple fractionation, it should not be classified as "crude." Importers may also mistakenly classify blends of sunflower oil with other vegetable oils here, when it should be classified as a mixture under Chapter 15 or according to the predominant component if specified by tariff notes.
How should importers classify products under HS 151211?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 151211 involves a thorough examination of the product's processing and composition. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 1512. Key factors include determining if the oil is derived from sunflower or safflower seeds and if it is in its crude form or a fraction thereof. Obtaining a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the supplier detailing the oil's characteristics is crucial for accurate declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 151211?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of crude sunflower oil, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 0.10 = $1,500.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 151211.10.00, which specifies a 10% ad valorem duty for non-preferential imports.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 151211?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 151211, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating crude sunflower oil from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration, typically a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate document, is required. For imports into the European Union, originating crude sunflower oil from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU may also benefit from reduced or zero duties, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the primary classification criteria for HS code 151211 (Sunflower-seed or safflower oil and fractions thereof)?
HS code 151211 specifically covers crude sunflower-seed or safflower oil, and their fractions. The key classification criteria are the source of the oil (sunflower seeds or safflower seeds) and its state (crude). Oils that have undergone significant refining processes, such as bleaching or deodorization, would typically be classified under different HS codes, such as 151219 for other oils of the same seeds. Refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 151211, and how do preferential trade agreements impact them?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 151211 can vary by country. For example, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule lists a rate of 6.00% ad valorem. The EU TARIC system may show different rates depending on the origin and specific trade agreements. Many trade agreements offer preferential duty rates. For instance, under certain agreements (indicated by codes like A+, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG), the duty rate can be Free. Importers must verify the specific origin of the goods and consult the relevant trade agreement schedules to determine applicable preferential rates.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 151211 when it involves a combination of specific and ad valorem rates?
Some duty rates for HS 151211 are a combination of a specific rate (per unit of weight) and an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value). For example, a rate might be expressed as '9.9¢/kg + 20% ad valorem'. To calculate the total duty: 1. Determine the quantity in kilograms (kg) of the imported oil. 2. Multiply the quantity by the specific rate (e.g., 9.9¢/kg). 3. Determine the customs value of the imported oil. 4. Calculate the ad valorem portion by multiplying the customs value by the ad valorem rate (e.g., 20%). 5. Sum the results from steps 2 and 4. For instance, if you import 1,000 kg of oil valued at $2,000 USD, and the rate is 9.9¢/kg + 20% ad valorem: Specific duty = 1,000 kg * $0.099/kg = $99.00 USD. Ad valorem duty = $2,000 USD * 20% = $400.00 USD. Total duty = $99.00 + $400.00 = $499.00 USD. Always ensure you are using the correct currency and conversion factors as per customs regulations.
What documentation is typically required when importing sunflower-seed or safflower oil under HS code 151211?
Standard import documentation for HS 151211 includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, a certificate of origin is often required, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. Depending on the importing country's regulations, a phytosanitary certificate may be necessary to ensure the product meets health and safety standards. Importers and customs brokers should also be prepared to provide laboratory analysis reports if requested by customs authorities to verify the oil's composition and confirm it meets the definition of 'crude' oil for this HS code.
Are there specific trade agreements that commonly provide duty-free entry for sunflower-seed or safflower oil (HS 151211)?
Yes, several trade agreements can provide duty-free or reduced-duty entry for goods classified under HS 151211. For example, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may offer preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide that can reduce or eliminate duties. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule often lists preferential rates for countries with which the US has trade agreements, such as Australia (AU), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR), often indicated by specific symbols or codes. Importers must consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and the relevant trade agreement text to confirm eligibility and requirements for duty-free entry.