HS Code Subheading

Vegetables; fruits of the genus capsicum or of the genus pimenta, fresh or chilled

0709.60 Subheading
Section II — Vegetable products

About HS Code 070960

This HS code covers fresh or chilled fruits of the genus Capsicum (e.g., bell peppers, chili peppers) and Pimenta. In practice, the vast majority of trade under this code involves Capsicum peppers, which are globally traded vegetables essential in countless cuisines. Major exporters include countries with optimal growing conditions or advanced greenhouse technology, such as Mexico, Spain, and the Netherlands. Importers are widespread, with the USA, Canada, and Germany being significant consumers due to high demand for fresh produce year-round. The trade requires efficient cold chain logistics, stringent quality control, and compliance with diverse food safety standards to ensure peppers arrive fresh and undamaged, catering to both retail and food service sectors.

Products Under This Code

Bell peppers (red, yellow, green), jalapeño peppers, habanero peppers, poblano peppers, serrano peppers, sweet pointed peppers, mini bell peppers, cayenne peppers

Real World Examples

NatureSweet Bell Peppers, Pero Family Farms Mini Sweet Peppers, local produce brands, Mastronardi Produce (Sunset Brand)

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with dried peppers under 071290 or 0904 (spices), or with other fresh vegetables under 070990 if not clearly identified as Capsicum/Pimenta.

Products Classified Under 0709.60

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

Mexico, Spain, and the Netherlands are top exporters, while the USA, Canada, and Germany are major importers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 070960?

HS code 070960 covers: Vegetables; fruits of the genus capsicum or of the genus pimenta, fresh or chilled. This HS code covers fresh or chilled fruits of the genus Capsicum (e.g., bell peppers, chili peppers) and Pimenta. In practice, the vast majority of trade under this code involves Capsicum peppers, which are globally traded vegetables essential in countless cuisines. Major exporters include countries with optimal growing conditions or advanced greenhouse technology, such as Mexico, Spain, and the Netherlands. Importers are widespread, with the USA, Canada, and Germany being significant consumers due to high demand for fresh produce year-round. The trade requires efficient cold chain logistics, stringent quality control, and compliance with diverse food safety standards to ensure peppers arrive fresh and undamaged, catering to both retail and food service sectors.

What products fall under HS code 070960?

Bell peppers (red, yellow, green), jalapeño peppers, habanero peppers, poblano peppers, serrano peppers, sweet pointed peppers, mini bell peppers, cayenne peppers

What are common misclassifications for HS code 070960?

Can be confused with dried peppers under 071290 or 0904 (spices), or with other fresh vegetables under 070990 if not clearly identified as Capsicum/Pimenta.

How is HS code 070960 structured?

HS code 070960 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (07) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (09) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (60) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.