HS 710110 Natural pearls
Quick Answer: Natural pearls imported under HS 710110 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free (MFN) or 10% (specific subheadings). This code specifically covers natural pearls, both worked and unworked, but not imitation pearls. Importers should be aware that while the primary MFN duty rate in the US is free, specific subheadings may apply higher rates. For detailed US tariff information, consulting the USITC is recommended. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the generally favorable duty treatment for natural pearls across major markets.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7101100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7101100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 710110 | — | — | — |
| 7101103000 | Free | — | ["g"] |
| 7101106000 | Free | — | ["g"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 710110 cover?
This subheading covers natural pearls, whether or not worked, but not drilled or otherwise processed to facilitate setting, but not strung (whether or not with intermediate beads), not otherwise mounted, set or strung. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this classification is reserved for pearls formed by mollusks without human intervention, in their natural state, prior to any significant manipulation for jewelry making.
What falls outside HS 710110?
The following products are excluded from HS 710110: cultured pearls, which are artificially stimulated to form and are classified under HS 710121 or 710122, depending on whether they are worked or not. Also excluded are pearls that have been drilled, threaded, strung, or otherwise mounted or set into jewelry. Imitation pearls, typically made of glass, plastic, or shell, are also classified elsewhere, often within Chapter 70 (glassware) or Chapter 39 (plastics), depending on their material composition.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 710110?
A common error is the misclassification of cultured pearls as natural pearls. This distinction is critical and often requires expert examination. Another mistake involves classifying drilled or strung pearls under this subheading; General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures and composite goods, or specific Chapter 71 notes, would direct these to different headings or subheadings based on their further processing or presentation.
How should importers classify products under HS 710110?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 710110 involves a thorough examination of the pearl's origin and processing. Importers and customs brokers must ascertain whether the pearl is naturally formed or artificially stimulated. If natural, they must confirm it has not been drilled, strung, or otherwise mounted. Reviewing supplier documentation and, if necessary, obtaining gemological certificates are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 710110?
A parcel of 100 grams of natural pearls, unworked, with a declared 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 value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) for subheading 710110.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 710110?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 710110, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, pearls originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for duty-free entry. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration on the invoice or a separate statement is required. While not a direct trade agreement, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for pearls from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 710110 (Natural pearls) into the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom?
For natural pearls (HS 710110):
- United States: The U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS) generally lists a duty rate of Free for natural pearls under subheading 710110.0000.
- European Union: The EU's Combined Nomenclature (TARIC) typically assigns a duty rate of Free for natural pearls under code 710110.00.
- United Kingdom: The UK Trade Tariff also lists a duty rate of Free for natural pearls under code 7101100000.
It is crucial to verify the most current rates with the respective customs authorities or consult the official tariff schedules, as these can be subject to change or specific trade agreements.
What specific criteria define a 'natural pearl' for HS classification under 710110?
For HS classification purposes under code 710110, 'natural pearls' are defined as those formed by a mollusk, without any artificial intervention or seeding. They are produced spontaneously within the mollusk's body. This distinguishes them from cultured pearls (HS 710121 and 710122), which are produced by human intervention to stimulate the formation of a pearl sac, or imitation pearls, which are made from other materials. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on distinguishing natural from cultured pearls.
What documentation is typically required when importing natural pearls (HS 710110)?
When importing natural pearls under HS code 710110, standard import documentation will be required, which may include:
- A commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the pearls.
- A packing list.
- A bill of lading or air waybill.
- A certificate of origin, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement.
- For high-value shipments, a gemological certificate from a reputable laboratory (e.g., GIA, SSEF) may be advisable to confirm the pearls' authenticity and characteristics, although not always a mandatory customs requirement for basic classification. Importers should always confirm specific requirements with their customs broker and the destination country's customs agency.
How is the duty calculated for natural pearls if a duty were applicable, and can you provide an example?
While natural pearls (HS 710110) are generally free of duty in major markets like the US, EU, and UK, if a duty were applicable, it would typically be calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value). For example, if a hypothetical duty rate of 5% ad valorem were applied to a shipment of natural pearls valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows:
Duty Amount = Value of Goods × Duty Rate Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 5% Duty Amount = $500 USD
In this scenario, the importer would owe $500 USD in customs duties. However, as stated, the actual duty rate for HS 710110 is typically 0% in most major trading nations.
Do trade agreements, such as the USMCA or EU trade deals, affect the duty rates for natural pearls (HS 710110)?
Trade agreements can influence duty rates, but for natural pearls (HS 710110), which are often already subject to a Free duty rate under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) status in many countries, the impact of preferential agreements might be minimal in terms of further duty reduction. However, trade agreements often streamline customs procedures, reduce or eliminate non-tariff barriers, and may require specific documentation like a certificate of origin to prove the goods' origin to qualify for any preferential treatment. Importers should always consult the specific terms of applicable trade agreements and verify origin requirements with their customs broker to ensure compliance and benefit from any available provisions.