HS Code Heading

Grain sorghum

10.07 Heading
Section II — Vegetable products

About HS Code 1007

Heading 1007 of the Harmonized System specifically covers "Grain sorghum," referring to the unprocessed kernels of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor). This classification is dedicated to the whole, unworked grains of this cereal, which is a versatile crop primarily used for animal feed, but also for brewing, some human consumption (especially in certain regions), and ethanol production. The scope is confined to the grain itself, distinguishing it from sorghum plants used for forage (fodder) or sweet sorghum stalks used for syrup production, which would fall under different chapters. As part of Chapter 10, "Cereals," within Section II, "Vegetable Products," it aligns with other unprocessed grains. While not as globally traded as maize or wheat, grain sorghum holds significant importance in regions like the U.S., Argentina, and Australia as a resilient crop, particularly in arid climates. Accurate classification under 1007 is crucial for trade compliance, affecting tariffs, import quotas, and sanitary requirements, especially given its role in animal feed chains. Understanding its boundaries helps prevent confusion with other 'minor' cereals or processed sorghum products, ensuring smooth international trade and adherence to agricultural regulations.

Products Under This Code

Milo grain, dura grain, kafir corn grain, feterita grain, hegari grain, sweet sorghum grain (for feed/food), whole grain sorghum, broken grain sorghum (unprocessed), white grain sorghum, red grain sorghum, black grain sorghum, organic grain sorghum, non-GMO grain sorghum, grain sorghum for animal feed, grain sorghum for brewing, grain sorghum for starch production, seed sorghum (unprocessed), popped sorghum kernels, industrial grade sorghum, food grade sorghum, poultry feed sorghum, livestock feed sorghum, birdseed sorghum.

Real World Examples

A large U.S. agricultural exporter dispatches 35,000 metric tons of milo (grain sorghum) from the Port of Houston to China, where it is primarily used as animal feed. The shipment is classified under HS 1007.00 and requires adherence to strict phytosanitary protocols for entry into the Chinese market. Argentina ships 20,000 metric tons of white grain sorghum to Japan, destined for both animal feed formulations and some niche brewing applications. This trade route often involves competitive pricing and careful management of commodity futures. An Australian grain company exports 10,000 metric tons of red grain sorghum to a poultry farm in the Middle East. The cargo moves via bulk carrier, with specific quality certifications regarding moisture content and purity being essential for the importing country's customs clearance.

Common Misclassification

Misclassification of grain sorghum often arises from confusion with other similar-looking cereals or processed forms. A common mistake is confusing grain sorghum (HS 1007) with millet (HS 1008), as both are 'minor' grains. While they share some uses, they are distinct botanical species. Another error involves classifying sorghum that has been processed beyond basic cleaning, such as sorghum flour (HS 1102) or flaked sorghum (HS 1104), under the raw grain heading. Additionally, prepared animal feed containing sorghum (HS 2309) should not be classified as raw grain. Precise identification of the grain type and degree of processing is vital to avoid incorrect duties and regulatory issues.

Subheadings 2

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

The United States, Argentina, and Australia are the primary global exporters of grain sorghum, benefiting from suitable climates and advanced agricultural practices. China, Japan, and Mexico are significant importers, mainly for animal feed, given sorghum's cost-effectiveness and nutritional profile. Tariffs on grain sorghum can vary, often influenced by the importing country's domestic feed grain supply and demand. Trade agreements, such as the USMCA for North American trade, can offer preferential access. Phytosanitary requirements are strictly enforced to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases, impacting trade flows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 1007?

HS code 1007 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Grain sorghum. Heading 1007 of the Harmonized System specifically covers "Grain sorghum," referring to the unprocessed kernels of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor). This classification is dedicated to the whole, unworked grains of this cereal, which is a versatile crop primarily used for animal feed, but also for brewing, some human consumption (especially in certain regions), and ethanol production. The scope is confined to the grain itself, distinguishing it from sorghum plants used for forage (fodder) or sweet sorghum stalks used for syrup production, which would fall under different chapters. As part of Chapter 10, "Cereals," within Section II, "Vegetable Products," it aligns with other unprocessed grains. While not as globally traded as maize or wheat, grain sorghum holds significant importance in regions like the U.S., Argentina, and Australia as a resilient crop, particularly in arid climates. Accurate classification under 1007 is crucial for trade compliance, affecting tariffs, import quotas, and sanitary requirements, especially given its role in animal feed chains. Understanding its boundaries helps prevent confusion with other 'minor' cereals or processed sorghum products, ensuring smooth international trade and adherence to agricultural regulations.

What products fall under HS code 1007?

Milo grain, dura grain, kafir corn grain, feterita grain, hegari grain, sweet sorghum grain (for feed/food), whole grain sorghum, broken grain sorghum (unprocessed), white grain sorghum, red grain sorghum, black grain sorghum, organic grain sorghum, non-GMO grain sorghum, grain sorghum for animal feed, grain sorghum for brewing, grain sorghum for starch production, seed sorghum (unprocessed), popped sorghum kernels, industrial grade sorghum, food grade sorghum, poultry feed sorghum, livestock feed sorghum, birdseed sorghum.

What are common misclassifications for HS code 1007?

Misclassification of grain sorghum often arises from confusion with other similar-looking cereals or processed forms. A common mistake is confusing grain sorghum (HS 1007) with millet (HS 1008), as both are 'minor' grains. While they share some uses, they are distinct botanical species. Another error involves classifying sorghum that has been processed beyond basic cleaning, such as sorghum flour (HS 1102) or flaked sorghum (HS 1104), under the raw grain heading. Additionally, prepared animal feed containing sorghum (HS 2309) should not be classified as raw grain. Precise identification of the grain type and degree of processing is vital to avoid incorrect duties and regulatory issues.

Which countries trade the most under HS code 1007?

The United States, Argentina, and Australia are the primary global exporters of grain sorghum, benefiting from suitable climates and advanced agricultural practices. China, Japan, and Mexico are significant importers, mainly for animal feed, given sorghum's cost-effectiveness and nutritional profile. Tariffs on grain sorghum can vary, often influenced by the importing country's domestic feed grain supply and demand. Trade agreements, such as the USMCA for North American trade, can offer preferential access. Phytosanitary requirements are strictly enforced to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases, impacting trade flows.

How is HS code 1007 structured?

HS code 1007 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 10 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (10) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (07) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.