HS 170310 Cane molasses
Quick Answer: Cane molasses imported under HS 170310 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00 EUR per 100 kg, and the US at rates varying from 0.01¢/kg of total sugars to free, depending on the country of origin. This HS code specifically covers molasses derived from the crushing of sugar cane, excluding chemically pure sugars. Importers should be aware that US duty rates are contingent on the total sugar content, requiring precise analysis. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these specific rates and origin-based preferences is crucial for accurate customs declarations and duty calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1703100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1703100000 | 0.00 EUR / 100 kg | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 170310 | — | — | — |
| 1703105000 | 0.01¢/kg of total sugars | Free (17 programs) | ["liters","kg ttl sug"] |
| 1703103000 | 0.35¢/liter | Free (17 programs) | ["liters"] |
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 1703.10?
Imports of Cane molasses 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?
What products does HS 170310 cover?
This subheading covers cane molasses, which is a viscous syrup produced during the refining of sugar cane. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, it specifically includes molasses derived from the centrifugal extraction of sugar from sugar cane. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses molasses that is not suitable for human consumption or further refining into sugar, often characterized by its high mineral content and distinct flavor profile.
What falls outside HS 170310?
The following products are excluded from HS 170310: beet molasses (classified under HS 170390), refined sugars, and syrups derived from other sources like corn or maple. Products that have undergone significant processing beyond simple extraction, such as flavored or medicated molasses, would also be classified elsewhere. For instance, molasses intended for animal feed that has been specifically formulated with additives might fall under Chapter 23. It is crucial to distinguish based on the source material and the degree of processing.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 170310?
A common error is misclassifying beet molasses under this subheading. 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. Cane molasses is explicitly defined, while beet molasses falls under a separate subheading (170390). Importers may also mistakenly classify molasses intended for animal feed with added nutrients under this heading, when it should be classified according to its primary function or composition under Chapter 23.
How should importers classify products under HS 170310?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 170310 involves verifying the source material and the refining process. Importers and customs brokers must obtain detailed product specifications from the supplier, confirming that the molasses is derived from sugar cane and is a byproduct of sugar production. Reviewing the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is essential to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 170310?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of raw cane molasses declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Note that specific countries may have different rates or additional duties applied.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 170310?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 170310, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible cane molasses originating from Canada or Mexico may be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, developing countries may benefit from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which can offer reduced or zero duty rates, often requiring a Form A certificate of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 170310 (Cane molasses)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for cane molasses (HS 170310) is typically 0.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates can apply under various trade agreements. For example, under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), certain developing countries may have duty-free access. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, to determine the applicable rate based on the country of origin. For instance, the US HTS lists a rate of Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) for certain origins, indicating duty-free entry under specific trade programs.
How is cane molasses (HS 170310) classified, and what are the key criteria?
Cane molasses (HS 170310) is classified as molasses derived from the extraction or refining of sugar cane. Key classification criteria include the origin of the molasses (cane vs. beet) and its Brix value or sugar content. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes clarify that this heading covers molasses that has not been de-sugarized or de-colorized to the point where it is no longer considered molasses. It is essential for importers to ensure the product description on import documents accurately reflects its origin and processing to avoid misclassification.
What documentation is typically required for importing cane molasses under HS 170310?
Standard documentation for importing cane molasses (HS 170310) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, a certificate of origin is often required, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific use of the molasses (e.g., for food, animal feed, or industrial purposes), a phytosanitary certificate or a certificate of analysis detailing sugar content and absence of contaminants may be necessary. Always verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
How are duties calculated for cane molasses (HS 170310) if a specific rate per unit is applied?
While many preferential rates for HS 170310 are ad valorem (percentage of value), some tariff schedules may include specific duties or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, often based on weight or sugar content. For example, if a tariff rate were 0.07¢/kg of total sugars, and you imported 10,000 kg of molasses with an average total sugar content of 70% (7,000 kg of sugar), the duty calculation would be: 7,000 kg sugar × $0.0007/kg = $4.90. Always confirm the exact duty calculation basis and rates from the official tariff schedule of the importing country.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for cane molasses (HS 170310)?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for cane molasses (HS 170310), often resulting in duty-free entry. Examples include agreements between the United States and countries like Chile (USCL), Australia (USAU), and various CAFTA-DR nations. The European Union also has numerous Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and Association Agreements that may offer reduced or zero duties for molasses originating from partner countries. Importers must verify the specific rules of origin and eligibility under each trade agreement to claim these benefits.