HS Code Subheading

Honey; natural

0409.00 Subheading
Section I — live animals; animal products

About HS Code 040900

This HS code is dedicated to natural honey, a globally traded commodity valued for its sweetness, unique flavors, and perceived health benefits. Natural honey encompasses a vast array of varieties, distinguished by the floral source, geographical origin, and processing methods (as long as it remains 'natural'). It is traded as a raw ingredient for food manufacturing, a direct consumer product, and a specialty item. Major importers include countries with high consumption rates or those lacking sufficient domestic production, while exporters are often nations with robust beekeeping industries. Key considerations in international honey trade include authenticity (preventing adulteration), geographical indication, and compliance with food safety standards regarding residues and contaminants.

Products Under This Code

Acacia honey, Manuka honey, wildflower honey, clover honey, buckwheat honey, orange blossom honey, multiflora honey, eucalyptus honey

Real World Examples

Wedderspoon Manuka Honey, Capilano Honey, Rowse Honey, Nature Nate's 100% Pure Honey, Langnese Honey

Common Misclassification

This code is specifically for natural honey. It might be confused with 1702 (other sugars, including artificial honey) if the product is adulterated or processed beyond its natural state, or with 0406 (cheese) or 0407 (eggs) if one isn't careful with the chapter headings.

Products Classified Under 0409.00

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

Germany, the US, and Japan are major importers; China, Argentina, and Ukraine are significant exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 040900?

HS code 040900 covers: Honey; natural. This HS code is dedicated to natural honey, a globally traded commodity valued for its sweetness, unique flavors, and perceived health benefits. Natural honey encompasses a vast array of varieties, distinguished by the floral source, geographical origin, and processing methods (as long as it remains 'natural'). It is traded as a raw ingredient for food manufacturing, a direct consumer product, and a specialty item. Major importers include countries with high consumption rates or those lacking sufficient domestic production, while exporters are often nations with robust beekeeping industries. Key considerations in international honey trade include authenticity (preventing adulteration), geographical indication, and compliance with food safety standards regarding residues and contaminants.

What products fall under HS code 040900?

Acacia honey, Manuka honey, wildflower honey, clover honey, buckwheat honey, orange blossom honey, multiflora honey, eucalyptus honey

What are common misclassifications for HS code 040900?

This code is specifically for natural honey. It might be confused with 1702 (other sugars, including artificial honey) if the product is adulterated or processed beyond its natural state, or with 0406 (cheese) or 0407 (eggs) if one isn't careful with the chapter headings.

How is HS code 040900 structured?

HS code 040900 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (04) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (09) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.