About HS Code 0907
Heading 0907 of the Harmonized System covers "Cloves (whole fruit, cloves and stems)," specifically referring to the dried flower buds, the whole fruit, and the stems of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum). This classification encompasses cloves in their natural, raw, or minimally processed forms, such as whole dried cloves, ground clove powder, and separated clove stems. The scope is precise, focusing on the botanical parts of the clove plant used as a spice. It excludes refined clove essential oil (which falls under Chapter 33 as essential oils) and any processed food preparations where cloves are merely an ingredient (typically Chapter 21). Sub-categories might distinguish between hand-picked premium grade cloves, machine-cleaned industrial grade cloves, or different origins like Zanzibar or Madagascar cloves. Accurate classification under 0907 is crucial for trade compliance, affecting customs duties, phytosanitary inspections, and adherence to quality standards (e.g., volatile oil content). Historically, cloves were a highly valued commodity in the spice trade, driving maritime exploration and colonial rivalries due to their potent flavor and medicinal properties. As an integral part of Chapter 09, "Coffee, Tea, Maté and Spices," cloves are recognized as a natural aromatic plant product primarily intended for flavoring, distinguishing them from other agricultural products or industrial raw materials.
Products Under This Code
Whole dried cloves, ground clove powder, clove stems (dried), clove fruit (whole, dried), hand-picked cloves, machine-cleaned cloves, premium grade cloves, industrial grade cloves, organic cloves, conventional cloves, Zanzibar cloves, Madagascar cloves, Indonesian cloves, Sri Lankan cloves, powdered cloves, broken cloves, clove buds (dried), clove spice, whole dried clove spice, clove pieces, roasted cloves, unroasted cloves, sun-dried cloves, mechanically dried cloves.
Real World Examples
An Indonesian manufacturer of kretek cigarettes imports large volumes of whole dried cloves from Madagascar via bulk cargo ships, requiring careful inspection for moisture content and aroma profile. Meanwhile, a spice distributor in India receives containers of ground clove powder from Tanzania (Zanzibar), destined for blending into masalas and traditional Ayurvedic medicines, necessitating strict adherence to food safety and purity standards. In another scenario, a European gourmet food company imports premium hand-picked cloves from Sri Lanka, flown in by air cargo, for use in high-end culinary applications, prioritizing visual appeal and intense flavor.
Common Misclassification
Common misclassification mistakes for cloves include confusing the whole spice (0907) with clove essential oil (3301), which is a concentrated extract with different applications and tariff rates. Another error involves classifying clove stems that are primarily used for essential oil extraction rather than as a spice under 1211 (plants and parts of plants for perfumery or medicinal uses), even though 0907 specifically includes stems. Additionally, prepared food items containing cloves as an ingredient (e.g., spice blends) typically fall under 2103 or other Chapter 21 headings, not 0907. Correct classification hinges on the form and primary intended use of the product.
Subheadings 2
Industry
This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.
Trade Overview
Indonesia (both as a producer and the largest consumer for kretek cigarettes), Madagascar, Tanzania (Zanzibar), and Sri Lanka are the main global exporters of cloves. Key importers include Indonesia, India, the United States, and the European Union. Tariffs for raw cloves are generally low or zero in many markets, especially under various trade agreements. However, quality standards, particularly volatile oil content and moisture levels, are crucial for market acceptance and pricing. Phytosanitary regulations are also important due to the agricultural nature of the product.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 0907?
HS code 0907 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Cloves (whole fruit, cloves and stems). Heading 0907 of the Harmonized System covers "Cloves (whole fruit, cloves and stems)," specifically referring to the dried flower buds, the whole fruit, and the stems of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum). This classification encompasses cloves in their natural, raw, or minimally processed forms, such as whole dried cloves, ground clove powder, and separated clove stems. The scope is precise, focusing on the botanical parts of the clove plant used as a spice. It excludes refined clove essential oil (which falls under Chapter 33 as essential oils) and any processed food preparations where cloves are merely an ingredient (typically Chapter 21). Sub-categories might distinguish between hand-picked premium grade cloves, machine-cleaned industrial grade cloves, or different origins like Zanzibar or Madagascar cloves. Accurate classification under 0907 is crucial for trade compliance, affecting customs duties, phytosanitary inspections, and adherence to quality standards (e.g., volatile oil content). Historically, cloves were a highly valued commodity in the spice trade, driving maritime exploration and colonial rivalries due to their potent flavor and medicinal properties. As an integral part of Chapter 09, "Coffee, Tea, Maté and Spices," cloves are recognized as a natural aromatic plant product primarily intended for flavoring, distinguishing them from other agricultural products or industrial raw materials.
What products fall under HS code 0907?
Whole dried cloves, ground clove powder, clove stems (dried), clove fruit (whole, dried), hand-picked cloves, machine-cleaned cloves, premium grade cloves, industrial grade cloves, organic cloves, conventional cloves, Zanzibar cloves, Madagascar cloves, Indonesian cloves, Sri Lankan cloves, powdered cloves, broken cloves, clove buds (dried), clove spice, whole dried clove spice, clove pieces, roasted cloves, unroasted cloves, sun-dried cloves, mechanically dried cloves.
What are common misclassifications for HS code 0907?
Common misclassification mistakes for cloves include confusing the whole spice (0907) with clove essential oil (3301), which is a concentrated extract with different applications and tariff rates. Another error involves classifying clove stems that are primarily used for essential oil extraction rather than as a spice under 1211 (plants and parts of plants for perfumery or medicinal uses), even though 0907 specifically includes stems. Additionally, prepared food items containing cloves as an ingredient (e.g., spice blends) typically fall under 2103 or other Chapter 21 headings, not 0907. Correct classification hinges on the form and primary intended use of the product.
Which countries trade the most under HS code 0907?
Indonesia (both as a producer and the largest consumer for kretek cigarettes), Madagascar, Tanzania (Zanzibar), and Sri Lanka are the main global exporters of cloves. Key importers include Indonesia, India, the United States, and the European Union. Tariffs for raw cloves are generally low or zero in many markets, especially under various trade agreements. However, quality standards, particularly volatile oil content and moisture levels, are crucial for market acceptance and pricing. Phytosanitary regulations are also important due to the agricultural nature of the product.
How is HS code 0907 structured?
HS code 0907 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 09 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (09) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (07) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.