HS 210210 Active yeasts
Quick Answer: HS Code 2102.10 covers "Active yeasts," specifically live, fermenting yeasts used in baking, brewing, and other food industries. These are distinct from inactive yeasts (2102.20). Importers and exporters should note significant duty rate variations: the UK Trade Tariff generally applies 0.00% ad valorem, while the EU TARIC imposes rates such as 12.00% or 14.70% ad valorem. The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) lists a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 20% ad valorem, but offers "Free" duty for products originating from numerous Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners (e.g., Australia, Korea, Mexico). Always verify the specific subheading and origin to determine the applicable rate and potential preferential treatment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2102100000 | — | — | — |
| 2102101010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2102103100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2102109000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2102109090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2102103900 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 2102109000 | 14.70 % | — | — |
| 2102109010 | 14.70 % | — | — |
| 2102109090 | 14.70 % | — | — |
| 2102100000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2102100000 | 6.4% | 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 2102.10?
Imports of Active yeasts 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 210210 cover?
This subheading covers "Active yeasts," which are live, single-celled fungi primarily of the genus *Saccharomyces*, capable of fermentation. These yeasts are typically used in baking, brewing, and distilling industries due to their ability to convert sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2102 specify that active yeasts retain their fermentative power, distinguishing them from inactive yeasts. Examples include baker's yeast (compressed or dried), brewer's yeast, and distiller's yeast, provided they are in a viable state. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC system align with this definition, focusing on the functional characteristic of being "active."
What falls outside HS 210210?
The following products are excluded from HS 210210: inactive yeasts, which are classified under HS 210220. Inactive yeasts have lost their fermentative power, often through heat treatment, and are typically used as food supplements, flavor enhancers, or animal feed ingredients. For instance, nutritional yeast flakes, which are deactivated, would fall under 210220. Similarly, yeast preparations for medicinal uses, such as certain probiotics, may be classified under Chapter 30 if they meet the criteria for medicaments. Micro-organisms other than yeasts, even if active, are generally classified elsewhere, such as under Chapter 30 or 38, depending on their nature and intended use, ensuring a clear distinction based on the specific type of organism.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 210210?
A common error is misclassifying inactive yeast as active yeast, or vice versa, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential compliance issues. Importers sometimes overlook the critical distinction of "activity" and classify all yeast products under 210210 without verifying their fermentative capacity. Another mistake involves classifying yeast extracts, which are derived from yeast but are not whole yeast cells, under this subheading; yeast extracts are correctly classified under HS 2106. Furthermore, preparations containing yeast but where yeast is not the essential character, such as certain food preparations, might be incorrectly placed here instead of their more specific heading based on General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b).
How should importers classify products under HS 210210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 210210 involves first confirming that the product is indeed a yeast and, crucially, that it is "active," meaning it retains its fermentative power. Importers and customs brokers should review product specifications, technical data sheets, and manufacturing processes to verify the viability of the yeast. If there is any doubt regarding activity, laboratory testing may be necessary. Always consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2102, the USITC HTS, and the EU TARIC for precise definitions and rulings. Ensure that the product is not an inactive yeast (HS 210220) or a yeast extract (HS 2106), and apply General Interpretative Rule 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the import duty rate for HS code 2102.10 ('Active yeasts') in key markets, and are there any preferential rates available?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2102.10 vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a 'Free' (0.00%) MFN duty rate. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 6.4% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 6.4% ad valorem MFN duty. However, many preferential trade agreements offer duty-free access. For instance, imports into the US from countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG) are 'Free' under respective Free Trade Agreements. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country and verify eligibility under any applicable free trade agreements, such as those with Canada (D), Mexico (E), or other Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) schemes (A, S, P) where 'Free' rates may apply based on country of origin and compliance with rules of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Active yeasts' under HS 2102.10, distinguishing it from other yeast products?
HS 2102.10 specifically covers 'Active yeasts'. The primary criterion for classification under this subheading is that the yeast must be metabolically active, meaning it retains its fermentative capacity. This distinguishes it from 'inactive yeasts' (e.g., spent brewer's yeast, nutritional yeast) which are classified under HS 2102.20, and 'baking powders' (HS 2102.30). Active yeasts are typically sold in fresh, compressed, or dried forms, provided they can still initiate fermentation. Customs authorities will assess the product's viability and intended use. The World Customs Organization's Explanatory Notes to Chapter 21 provide further guidance, emphasizing the live nature of the microorganisms.
What documentation is typically required for importing active yeasts (HS 2102.10), particularly concerning sanitary or phytosanitary measures?
Beyond standard customs documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, active yeasts often require specific health or sanitary certificates due to their biological nature. Importing countries may require a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) confirming the yeast's specifications, purity, and absence of contaminants. Depending on the origin and destination, a Veterinary Certificate or a Phytosanitary Certificate might be necessary, especially if the yeast is derived from or intended for use in sensitive applications. Importers should verify specific import permit requirements and any applicable food safety regulations (e.g., FDA regulations in the US, EU food law) which may necessitate additional declarations or pre-market approvals. It is crucial to check the importing country's specific agency requirements (e.g., USDA APHIS in the US, EFSA in the EU).
How do major trade agreements, such as the USMCA or EU-UK TCA, impact the import of active yeasts (HS 2102.10)?
Major trade agreements frequently provide preferential duty treatment for active yeasts. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), active yeasts originating in Mexico or Canada are eligible for duty-free (0.00%) entry into the United States, provided they meet the agreement's rules of origin. Similarly, the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) allows for duty-free and quota-free trade of active yeasts (HS 2102.10) between the EU and the UK, provided the goods are originating. Importers must ensure that the product qualifies under the specific agreement's rules of origin, which typically involve a certificate of origin or an origin declaration. Failure to meet these rules will result in the application of the MFN duty rate. These agreements also often streamline customs procedures and may harmonize certain regulatory standards, though specific sanitary and phytosanitary requirements generally remain subject to national regulations.