HS 200949 Other

HS code 2009.49 covers 'Other' pineapple juice, not fermented and not containing added spirit. This subheading is a residual category for pineapple juice that does not meet the criteria for other more specific subheadings within 2009.4 (e.g., concentrated, not concentrated, specific Brix values). General Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates vary significantly by importing country. For example, some jurisdictions may apply a compound duty such as '30.00% + 17.00 GBP / 100 kg' or '33.60% + 20.60 EUR / 100 kg', while others might have an ad valorem rate like '30.00%' or '18¢/liter'. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the precise MFN duty rate applicable at the time of import.

Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for products classified under HS 2009.49, depending on the country of origin and applicable free trade agreements or preferential schemes. For instance, the duty rate can be 'Free' for imports from countries with which the importing nation has specific agreements. Examples of such preferential treatment might apply to imports from countries designated 'A+, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG' under various trade programs. Importers should verify the specific requirements for claiming preferential treatment, which typically include providing a valid Certificate of Origin and ensuring the product meets the rules of origin criteria of the respective trade agreement.

The primary classification criterion for HS 2009.49 is its 'other' designation within the pineapple juice category (2009.4). This means it covers pineapple juice that is not concentrated, not fermented, and does not contain added spirit, but also does not fall into more specific subheadings based on Brix value or packaging. For example, if there are specific subheadings for pineapple juice of a certain Brix value (e.g., exceeding 20 Brix) or in specific containers, 2009.49 would apply to pineapple juice that falls outside those specific parameters. Importers must accurately determine the Brix value, concentration status, and absence of fermentation or added spirit to ensure correct classification. Reference to the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 20 and heading 2009 is crucial for precise interpretation.

Standard import documentation for HS 2009.49 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. To claim preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, Form A, or specific FTA certificate) is mandatory. Additionally, depending on the importing country's regulations, health certificates, phytosanitary certificates, or laboratory analysis reports confirming the product's composition (e.g., Brix value, absence of fermentation) may be required. Importers should consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list of required documents to avoid delays and penalties.

Trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS 2009.49. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), qualifying pineapple juice originating from Mexico or Canada would likely enter the U.S. duty-free, provided it meets the agreement's rules of origin. Similarly, the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) would offer preferential or duty-free access for qualifying pineapple juice between the EU and Japan. Importers must ensure their product meets the specific rules of origin outlined in the respective trade agreement, which often involve criteria related to where the pineapples were grown and where the juice was processed. Failure to meet these rules or provide proper documentation will result in the application of the higher MFN duty rate.