HS Code Subheading

Spices; cumin seeds, neither crushed nor ground

0909.31 Subheading
Section II — Vegetable products

About HS Code 090931

This HS code pertains to whole cumin seeds, which are neither crushed nor ground. Cumin is a globally significant spice, integral to the culinary traditions of India, Mexico, the Middle East, and North Africa, where it's used in curries, stews, breads, and spice blends. International trade in whole cumin involves major producers like India, Syria, Turkey, and Iran, supplying a diverse range of importers including food manufacturers, spice packagers, and ethnic food distributors in countries such as the United States, the European Union, and Japan. Key factors in trade include the seed's origin, color, aroma, and purity, as well as its essential oil content, which dictates its flavor intensity. Buyers often seek specific varieties like 'white' or 'black' cumin for distinct applications.

Products Under This Code

Whole cumin seeds, Organic whole cumin, Black cumin seeds, Cumin for pickling, Cumin for spice blends

Real World Examples

Frontier Co-op Whole Cumin Seed, Simply Organic Cumin Seed, Sadaf Whole Cumin, Shan Whole Cumin

Common Misclassification

Often confused with crushed or ground cumin seeds (090932) if the processing state isn't clearly declared, or with caraway seeds (090961) due to visual similarity.

Products Classified Under 0909.31

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

India is a dominant exporter, with the United States and European Union being major importers of whole cumin seeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 090931?

HS code 090931 covers: Spices; cumin seeds, neither crushed nor ground. This HS code pertains to whole cumin seeds, which are neither crushed nor ground. Cumin is a globally significant spice, integral to the culinary traditions of India, Mexico, the Middle East, and North Africa, where it's used in curries, stews, breads, and spice blends. International trade in whole cumin involves major producers like India, Syria, Turkey, and Iran, supplying a diverse range of importers including food manufacturers, spice packagers, and ethnic food distributors in countries such as the United States, the European Union, and Japan. Key factors in trade include the seed's origin, color, aroma, and purity, as well as its essential oil content, which dictates its flavor intensity. Buyers often seek specific varieties like 'white' or 'black' cumin for distinct applications.

What products fall under HS code 090931?

Whole cumin seeds, Organic whole cumin, Black cumin seeds, Cumin for pickling, Cumin for spice blends

What are common misclassifications for HS code 090931?

Often confused with crushed or ground cumin seeds (090932) if the processing state isn't clearly declared, or with caraway seeds (090961) due to visual similarity.

How is HS code 090931 structured?

HS code 090931 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (09) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (09) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (31) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.