HS 200580 Sweetcorn (Zea mays var. saccharata)
Quick Answer: Sweetcorn (Zea mays var. saccharata) imported under HS 200580 enters the UK at 4.00% + 7.80 GBP / 100 kg/net eda, the EU at 5.10% + 9.40 EUR / 100 kg/net eda, and the US at 5.6% (MFN). This code specifically covers sweetcorn, prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid, excluding frozen sweetcorn. Importers should note that the UK and EU rates include a specific component per 100 kg net, in addition to an ad valorem percentage. The US offers preferential duty rates for certain trading partners, as detailed on the USITC. According to CustomTariffs data, careful attention to the "net eda" (effective dry matter content) is crucial for accurate duty calculation in the UK and EU.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005800000 | 4.00 % + 7.80 GBP / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
| 2005800010 | 4.00 % + 7.80 GBP / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
| 2005800030 | 4.00 % + 7.80 GBP / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
| 2005800091 | 4.00 % + 7.80 GBP / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
| 2005800099 | 4.00 % + 7.80 GBP / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005800099 | 5.10 % + 9.40 EUR / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
| 2005800000 | 5.10 % + 9.40 EUR / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
| 2005800010 | 5.10 % + 9.40 EUR / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
| 2005800030 | 5.10 % + 9.40 EUR / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
| 2005800091 | 5.10 % + 9.40 EUR / 100 kg/net eda | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005800000 | 5.6% | Free (17 programs) | ["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 2005.80?
Imports of Sweetcorn (Zea mays var. saccharata) 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 200580 cover?
This subheading covers sweetcorn (Zea mays var. saccharata) that is prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid, and not being sweetened. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes sweetcorn kernels, whether whole or cut, that have undergone processing such as canning, freezing, or drying, but are not preserved in a manner that adds significant acidity. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this definition, focusing on the specific variety of corn known for its sweetness.
What falls outside HS 200580?
The following products are excluded from HS 200580: sweetcorn preserved in vinegar or acetic acid (classified under HS 200190), sweetcorn that is simply dried without further preparation (typically classified under HS 1005), and sweetcorn that has been sweetened (which would fall under HS 200599 if other vegetables are present or HS 200600 if sugar is the primary preservative). Also excluded are fresh or chilled sweetcorn (Chapter 7) and sweetcorn flour or meal (Chapter 11).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 200580?
A common error is misclassifying sweetcorn preserved in brine or other non-acidic solutions as if it were fresh, or conversely, classifying sweetcorn preserved in vinegar under this heading. Another mistake involves confusing sweetcorn with other varieties of corn or maize, which have different HS classifications. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 200580?
The correct procedure for classifying sweetcorn under HS 200580 involves first identifying the product as sweetcorn (Zea mays var. saccharata) and confirming it is prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid. Importers and customs brokers must then consult the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to verify the specific wording of the subheading and any associated notes or explanatory remarks to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 200580?
A 10-kilogram package of canned sweetcorn kernels, declared at a customs value of $30.00 USD, would attract a US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty of $1.50. This is calculated using the MFN rate of 1.5% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for HS 200580, applied to the declared value: 1.5% × $30.00 = $0.45. However, if the product were sold by weight, for example, a 10kg package with a specific duty of $0.15 per kg, the duty would be $1.50 (0.15 × 10).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 200580?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 200580, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin is typically required, depending on the exporting country.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for sweetcorn (Zea mays var. saccharata) under HS code 200580 in major markets?
The import duty rates for HS code 200580 (Sweetcorn (Zea mays var. saccharata), not including sweetcorn in brine) vary by importing country. For example:
- United States: The U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS) lists a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.6% ad valorem. Specific preferential rates may apply under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
- European Union: The TARIC database indicates a duty rate of 5.10% ad valorem plus 9.40 EUR per 100 kg net for goods originating from countries without preferential agreements. Preferential rates are available for certain partner countries.
- United Kingdom: The UK Trade Tariff shows a duty rate of 4.00% ad valorem plus 7.80 GBP per 100 kg net for goods not covered by preferential trade agreements. Preferential rates are available for goods from countries with which the UK has a trade agreement.
Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their country of import and the origin of the goods, as rates can change and preferential agreements significantly impact costs.
How is the import duty for HS 200580 calculated, considering both ad valorem and specific duties?
The import duty for HS code 200580 often comprises a combination of an ad valorem duty (a percentage of the value of the goods) and a specific duty (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For instance, if the UK duty rate is 4.00% + 7.80 GBP / 100 kg net, and you import 1,000 kg of sweetcorn with a customs value of 2,000 GBP:
- Ad Valorem Duty: 4.00% of 2,000 GBP = 80 GBP.
- Specific Duty: (7.80 GBP / 100 kg) * 1,000 kg = 78 GBP.
Total Duty: 80 GBP (ad valorem) + 78 GBP (specific) = 158 GBP.
This calculation demonstrates how both the value and the quantity of the imported sweetcorn contribute to the total duty payable. Always confirm the exact calculation method and units with the customs authority of the importing country.
What are the key classification criteria for sweetcorn (Zea mays var. saccharata) under HS code 200580?
HS code 200580 specifically covers 'Sweetcorn (Zea mays var. saccharata), not including sweetcorn in brine'. The primary classification criteria are:
- Species: The product must be sweetcorn, a specific variety of maize (Zea mays var. saccharata) characterized by its high sugar content and tender kernels when mature.
- Form: It typically refers to sweetcorn that has been preserved by processing other than by vinegar or acetic acid. This includes canned, frozen, or otherwise processed sweetcorn, but explicitly excludes sweetcorn preserved in brine (which falls under other HS codes, often within 2005.90 or similar).
- Preparation: The sweetcorn should not be prepared or preserved by vinegar or acetic acid. If it is preserved in brine (a salt and water solution), it is classified elsewhere.
Importers must ensure their product meets these criteria to avoid misclassification. Documentation such as product specifications and processing details is crucial.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 200580, and what documentation is typically required?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 200580. For example:
- United States: Agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may offer reduced or zero duties for originating goods.
- European Union: The EU has numerous Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and Association Agreements (e.g., with Mediterranean countries, African, Caribbean, and Pacific states) that can grant preferential access.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the UK has established Continuity Trade Agreements with many countries, mirroring previous EU agreements, which can affect duties on sweetcorn.
To claim preferential treatment, importers typically require a Proof of Origin, such as a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin issued by the exporter, conforming to the specific rules of the relevant trade agreement. This documentation must be provided to customs authorities at the time of import. Always consult the specific trade agreement and the customs regulations of the importing country for precise requirements.
What documentation is generally required for importing sweetcorn under HS code 200580?
Beyond the standard import documents like a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importing sweetcorn (HS 200580) may require additional documentation depending on the importing country's regulations and the nature of the product:
- Phytosanitary Certificate: Often required to certify that the consignment is free from pests and diseases, particularly if the sweetcorn is imported in a less processed state or from regions known for specific agricultural risks.
- Certificate of Origin: Essential if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
- Product Specifications/Analysis Certificate: May be requested by customs to verify the product's composition, variety (confirming it is sweetcorn, Zea mays var. saccharata), and processing method (e.g., confirming it's not in brine or preserved by vinegar).
- Food Safety Declarations: Depending on the importing country's food safety regulations, declarations confirming compliance with relevant standards might be necessary.
Importers and customs brokers should proactively verify the specific documentation requirements with the customs authority and relevant ministries (e.g., agriculture, food safety) of the destination country before shipment.