HS Code Subheading

Spices; cardamoms, neither crushed nor ground

0908.31 Subheading
Section II — Vegetable products

About HS Code 090831

HS code 090831 covers whole cardamom pods, which are neither crushed nor ground, making them a premium commodity in the global spice trade. Guatemala and India are the dominant producers and exporters of this highly aromatic spice. Whole cardamom is traded for its intense flavor and fragrance, used extensively in culinary applications, particularly in Middle Eastern, Nordic, and Indian cuisines, as well as in beverages like coffee and tea, and traditional medicine. Major importers include Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and countries in Europe and North America, where demand for high-quality, intact pods is strong. Key trade considerations involve the color, size, and plumpness of the pods, which indicate freshness and volatile oil content. Sustainable harvesting and fair trade practices are increasingly important for buyers seeking ethically sourced products.

Products Under This Code

Whole green cardamom pods, whole black cardamom pods, unground cardamom, dried cardamom pods, premium whole cardamom, organic whole cardamom

Real World Examples

Spice Islands Whole Green Cardamom, Simply Organic Whole Green Cardamom, Frontier Co-op Whole Green Cardamom, Badia Whole Green Cardamom

Common Misclassification

This code can be confused with 090832 (crushed or ground cardamoms) due to processing state; whole cardamom seeds without the pod would also fall here.

Products Classified Under 0908.31

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

Guatemala and India are the dominant exporters, with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates being major importers of whole cardamom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 090831?

HS code 090831 covers: Spices; cardamoms, neither crushed nor ground. HS code 090831 covers whole cardamom pods, which are neither crushed nor ground, making them a premium commodity in the global spice trade. Guatemala and India are the dominant producers and exporters of this highly aromatic spice. Whole cardamom is traded for its intense flavor and fragrance, used extensively in culinary applications, particularly in Middle Eastern, Nordic, and Indian cuisines, as well as in beverages like coffee and tea, and traditional medicine. Major importers include Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and countries in Europe and North America, where demand for high-quality, intact pods is strong. Key trade considerations involve the color, size, and plumpness of the pods, which indicate freshness and volatile oil content. Sustainable harvesting and fair trade practices are increasingly important for buyers seeking ethically sourced products.

What products fall under HS code 090831?

Whole green cardamom pods, whole black cardamom pods, unground cardamom, dried cardamom pods, premium whole cardamom, organic whole cardamom

What are common misclassifications for HS code 090831?

This code can be confused with 090832 (crushed or ground cardamoms) due to processing state; whole cardamom seeds without the pod would also fall here.

How is HS code 090831 structured?

HS code 090831 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (09) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (08) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (31) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.