HS Code Subheading

Fruit, edible; sour cherries (Prunus cerasus), fresh

0809.21 Subheading
Section II — Vegetable products

About HS Code 080921

This HS code specifically identifies fresh sour cherries (Prunus cerasus), also known as tart cherries, which are distinct from sweet cherries due to their higher acidity. While some are consumed fresh, the vast majority are traded for processing into pies, preserves, juices, concentrates, and liqueurs. Major producing countries include Turkey, the USA (particularly Michigan), and Poland, which are key suppliers to the global food processing industry. The trade is characterized by a short, intense harvest window, often utilizing mechanical harvesting, followed by rapid processing or freezing to preserve quality. Importers, primarily food manufacturers, seek consistent quality, color, and acidity levels. Strict quality control and efficient logistics are crucial to manage the perishable nature of the fruit before processing.

Products Under This Code

Montmorency Cherries, Morello Cherries, Balaton Cherries, English Morello Cherries, Schattenmorelle Cherries

Real World Examples

Michigan Montmorency Cherries, Traverse Bay Farms Cherries, King Orchards Cherries, Door County Cherries

Common Misclassification

Clearly distinguished from 080929 (sweet cherries) by taste and primary use, and from 080910 (apricots) as a different stone fruit.

Products Classified Under 0809.21

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

Turkey, USA, and Poland are leading producers, with significant trade for processing to Europe and North America.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 080921?

HS code 080921 covers: Fruit, edible; sour cherries (Prunus cerasus), fresh. This HS code specifically identifies fresh sour cherries (Prunus cerasus), also known as tart cherries, which are distinct from sweet cherries due to their higher acidity. While some are consumed fresh, the vast majority are traded for processing into pies, preserves, juices, concentrates, and liqueurs. Major producing countries include Turkey, the USA (particularly Michigan), and Poland, which are key suppliers to the global food processing industry. The trade is characterized by a short, intense harvest window, often utilizing mechanical harvesting, followed by rapid processing or freezing to preserve quality. Importers, primarily food manufacturers, seek consistent quality, color, and acidity levels. Strict quality control and efficient logistics are crucial to manage the perishable nature of the fruit before processing.

What products fall under HS code 080921?

Montmorency Cherries, Morello Cherries, Balaton Cherries, English Morello Cherries, Schattenmorelle Cherries

What are common misclassifications for HS code 080921?

Clearly distinguished from 080929 (sweet cherries) by taste and primary use, and from 080910 (apricots) as a different stone fruit.

How is HS code 080921 structured?

HS code 080921 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (08) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (09) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (21) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.