Turmeric HS Codes Explained: A Complete Guide for Importers

What is an HS Code?

The Harmonized System (HS) is an international nomenclature for classifying traded products. Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), it’s used by customs authorities worldwide to:

• Identify products for duty assessment
• Collect trade statistics
• Apply trade agreements
• Enforce import/export regulations

An HS code is a 6-digit number that classifies products. Countries add additional digits (typically 2-4 more) for more specific classification. In the US, this becomes the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code with 10 digits. In the EU, it’s the CN (Combined Nomenclature) code with 8 digits.

Why it matters: The wrong HS code can mean:

• Paying higher duties than necessary
• Customs delays and inspections
• Penalties for misclassification
• Rejected shipments
• Trade compliance issues

HS Code Structure for Turmeric

Turmeric products fall under Chapter 09 of the HS system: Coffee, Tea, Maté and Spices.

Here’s how the classification breaks down:

Chapter 09: Coffee, Tea, Maté and Spices

Heading 0910: Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric, Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices

This is where all turmeric products are classified.

6-Digit HS Codes for Turmeric

HS Code	Description
0910.30	Turmeric (curcuma)

Under 0910.30, countries add additional digits:

Extended Code	Description
0910.30.10	Turmeric, neither crushed nor ground (whole/raw)
0910.30.20	Turmeric, crushed or ground (powder)

Important: The exact extended codes vary by country. Always verify with the specific country’s tariff schedule.

US HTS Codes for Turmeric

The United States uses 10-digit HTS codes. Here are the relevant codes for turmeric:

Raw/Whole Turmeric

HTS 0910.30.0000 - Turmeric (curcuma)

This code covers:

• Dried turmeric fingers (whole rhizomes)
• Dried turmeric bulbs
• Dried turmeric splits

Duty rate: Free (Most Favored Nation)

Ground Turmeric (Powder)

HTS 0910.30.0000 - Turmeric (curcuma)

In the US, both whole and ground turmeric fall under the same code.

Duty rate: Free (MFN)

Turmeric Oleoresin

HTS 1302.19.9140 - Vegetable saps and extracts; oleoresins

This covers:

• Turmeric oleoresin
• Concentrated turmeric extracts in oil base

Duty rate: Free (MFN)

Curcumin Extract (Purified)

HTS 2914.69.9000 or 2932.99.9000** - Depending on purity and form

Highly purified curcumin (95%+) may be classified as:

• A ketone compound (Chapter 29 - Organic chemicals)
• Or under natural colorants

Note: Classification of high-purity curcumin can be complex. Consult a customs broker for specific products.

Turmeric as Food Coloring

HTS 3203.00.8000 - Coloring matter of vegetable origin

If turmeric is specifically prepared and marketed as a food colorant, it may fall here.

EU CN Codes for Turmeric

The European Union uses 8-digit CN codes:

Raw/Whole Turmeric

CN 0910 30 00 - Turmeric (curcuma)

Covers whole dried turmeric, not crushed or ground.

Duty rate: 0% (Erga omnes)

Ground Turmeric

CN 0910 30 00 - Turmeric (curcuma)

Same code covers ground turmeric in the EU.

Duty rate: 0% (Erga omnes)

Turmeric Oleoresin

CN 1302 19 70 - Vegetable saps and extracts

Duty rate: 0%

Curcumin (E100)

CN 3203 00 19 - Coloring matter of vegetable origin (when used as colorant)

Or

CN 2914 69 90 - Other ketones (for pharmaceutical-grade curcumin)

Other Major Markets

India (Export Codes)

India uses ITC-HS codes (8 digits):

ITC-HS Code	Description
0910 30 10	Turmeric, fresh
0910 30 20	Turmeric, dried
0910 30 30	Turmeric, powder

United Kingdom

Post-Brexit, the UK uses its own tariff (UKGT), largely mirroring EU codes:

Commodity code: 0910 30 00 00 - Turmeric

Duty rate: 0%

Canada

HS Code	Description	Duty
0910.30.00	Turmeric	Free

Australia

HS Code	Description	Duty
0910.30.00	Turmeric	Free

Japan

HS Code	Description	Duty
0910.30.000	Turmeric	Free

UAE/GCC

HS Code	Description	Duty
0910.30.00	Turmeric	5%

Understanding Duty Rates

Most Favored Nation (MFN) Rates

MFN rates are the standard duty rates applied to WTO member countries. For turmeric, MFN rates are typically 0% in most developed markets.

Preferential Rates

If India has a free trade agreement with the importing country, even lower rates (or zero rates) may apply. However, turmeric is already duty-free in most major markets, so this is less relevant.

Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)

Some countries offer GSP benefits for imports from developing countries like India. Check if your country offers GSP and if turmeric qualifies.

US GSP: Currently suspended, but turmeric was previously covered.

EU GSP: India is not currently a GSP beneficiary for the EU.

Common Classification Challenges

Whole vs Ground

Challenge: Shipment contains both whole and ground turmeric.

Solution: Classify separately if packed separately. If mixed, classify under the form that gives essential character (usually the predominant form by weight).

Value-Added Products

Challenge: Turmeric mixed with other ingredients (e.g., turmeric latte mix, golden milk powder).

Solution: These are typically classified as food preparations under Chapter 21 (Miscellaneous edible preparations) rather than as spices. Example: HTS 2106.90 for food preparations not elsewhere specified.

Extracts and Concentrates

Challenge: Where to classify turmeric oleoresin or curcumin extract?

Solution:

• Oleoresin (oily extract): Usually Chapter 13 (vegetable extracts)
• Curcumin 95%+ (crystalline): May be Chapter 29 (organic chemicals)
• For coloring use: May be Chapter 32 (colorants)

The intended use and processing level affect classification.

Organic vs Conventional

Challenge: Is organic turmeric classified differently?

Solution: No, the HS code is the same. Organic certification is a separate matter for documentation, not classification.

Practical Tips for Importers

1. Get a Binding Ruling

If you’re unsure about classification, request a binding ruling from your customs authority:

• US: Apply for a binding ruling from CBP
• EU: Apply for a Binding Tariff Information (BTI)
• UK: Apply for an Advance Tariff Ruling

A binding ruling provides certainty and protects you from reclassification.

2. Use Correct Product Descriptions

Ensure your commercial invoice describes the product accurately:

Good: “Turmeric powder (Curcuma longa), dried and ground, curcumin content 5%, in 25kg bags”

Bad: “Yellow spice powder”

Vague descriptions invite customs scrutiny.

3. Provide Supporting Documents

Have these ready for customs:

• Phytosanitary certificate
• Certificate of origin
• Certificate of analysis (COA)
• Packing list
• Bill of lading / airway bill

4. Understand Country-Specific Requirements

Beyond HS codes, be aware of:

• US: Prior Notice requirement (FDA)
• EU: RASFF compliance, aflatoxin limits
• Japan: Plant quarantine inspection
• Australia: Biosecurity requirements

5. Work With a Customs Broker

For regular imports, establish a relationship with a customs broker who understands spice imports. They can:

• Ensure correct classification
• Handle documentation
• Navigate inspections
• Advise on duty optimization

Duty Calculation Example

Scenario: Importing 20 MT of turmeric powder to the US

Parameter	Value
HS Code	0910.30.0000
Product	Turmeric powder
Quantity	20,000 kg
CIF Value	$60,000
MFN Duty Rate	0%
Duty Payable	$0

Additional fees to consider:

• Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): 0.3464% of value (min $27.23, max $528.33)
• Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF): 0.125% of value (for sea shipments)

Total for this example:

• MPF: $207.84 (0.3464% × $60,000)
• HMF: $75.00 (0.125% × $60,000)
• Total fees: $282.84

Note: Turmeric itself is duty-free, but administrative fees still apply.

Documentation We Provide

At JJ Spices, we provide comprehensive export documentation to ensure smooth customs clearance:

Standard documentation:

• Commercial Invoice with accurate HS codes
• Packing List
• Certificate of Origin
• Phytosanitary Certificate
• Certificate of Analysis (COA)
• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill

On request:

• Health Certificate
• Fumigation Certificate
• Radiation-Free Certificate
• Specific destination certificates

We declare HS codes based on the actual product shipped and can advise on classification for complex orders.

HS Code Quick Reference

Product	6-Digit HS	US HTS	EU CN
Whole dried turmeric	0910.30	0910.30.0000	0910 30 00
Turmeric powder	0910.30	0910.30.0000	0910 30 00
Turmeric oleoresin	1302.19	1302.19.9140	1302 19 70
Curcumin (colorant)	3203.00	3203.00.8000	3203 00 19
Curcumin (pharma)	2914.69	2914.69.9000	2914 69 90

Important Disclaimers

1. HS codes can change. Verify current codes with official sources before importing.

2. Country-specific codes vary. The 6-digit HS is international; digits 7+ are country-specific.

3. Classification is product-specific. The exact form, processing level, and intended use affect classification.

4. This guide is informational. For binding classification decisions, consult customs authorities or a licensed customs broker.

5. Duty rates change. Always verify current rates on official tariff databases.

Official Resources

For verifying HS codes:

• WCO: wcoomd.org (HS nomenclature)
• US: hts.usitc.gov (official HTS)
• EU: ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs (TARIC database)
• UK: trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• India: icegate.gov.in (ITC-HS codes)

For duty rates:

• US: CBP (Customs and Border Protection)
• EU: TARIC database
• Others: Respective customs authority websites

Conclusion

For most turmeric imports, classification is straightforward: HS 0910.30 covers standard turmeric products with zero or minimal duty in major markets.

Complexity arises with:

• Value-added products (classified as food preparations)
• Extracts and concentrates (multiple possible classifications)
• High-purity curcumin (may be organic chemicals)

When in doubt:

• Use accurate product descriptions
• Consult a customs broker
• Request a binding ruling

Getting classification right from the start prevents costly delays and penalties.

Questions about HS codes or import documentation? Contact us at +91 94921 56789 or sales@jjspices.in. We can provide accurate classification information and complete export documentation for your turmeric imports.