HS 200990 Mixtures of juices

What products does HS 200990 cover?

This subheading covers mixtures of fruit or vegetable juices not fermented and not containing added spirit, which are not specifically provided for in other subheadings of Heading 2009. This includes blends where no single juice predominates to the extent of 80% or more by volume, or mixtures of two or more juices from different fruits or vegetables. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2009 clarify that these are typically prepared for direct consumption or for use in beverages, and may include added sugar or other sweetening matter. For example, a blend of 50% apple juice and 50% orange juice would fall here, as would a mixture of carrot and ginger juice.

What falls outside HS 200990?

The following products are excluded from HS 200990: single fruit or vegetable juices, even if concentrated, which are classified in their respective specific subheadings under Heading 2009 (e.g., orange juice in 2009.1X, pineapple juice in 2009.4X). Also excluded are fruit or vegetable juices containing added spirit, which are classified in Chapter 22, typically under Heading 2208 if alcoholic beverages. Furthermore, beverages containing fruit or vegetable juice but with other significant ingredients that alter their character, such as soft drinks with a small juice content, generally fall under Heading 2202. Nectars, which are typically a mixture of juice, water, and sugar, are also generally classified under the specific juice subheading if the juice content is high enough to retain the character of that juice, or under 2202 if the water content is predominant.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 200990?

A common error is misclassifying a single juice that has been diluted or sweetened as a "mixture" under 200990, when it should remain under its specific single juice subheading if the character of that single juice predominates. This often occurs when a juice is marketed as a "blend" but consists primarily of one type of juice with minor additions. Another mistake is classifying beverages with a low juice content and significant added water, sweeteners, or other ingredients under 200990, when they should properly be classified as other non-alcoholic beverages under Heading 2202. Importers must carefully apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) when assessing mixtures, ensuring the component giving the essential character is identified, or GRI 3(c) if no essential character can be determined, which would lead to classification under the heading that occurs last in numerical order among those equally meriting consideration.

How should importers classify products under HS 200990?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 200990 requires a thorough analysis of the product's composition, specifically the types and proportions of juices present. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a detailed ingredient list and percentage breakdown by volume of each juice component. If the product is a blend of two or more distinct fruit or vegetable juices, and no single juice constitutes 80% or more by volume, then 200990 is likely the correct classification. It is crucial to consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2009 and review official guidance from the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC for specific rulings on similar products. When in doubt, consider requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties or delays.