HS Code Subheading

Seeds of forage plants; lucerne (alfalfa) seeds, of a kind used for sowing

1209.21 Subheading
Section II — Vegetable products

About HS Code 120921

Lucerne (alfalfa) seeds, specifically those for sowing, are a vital component of the global forage industry, crucial for livestock feed production. Alfalfa is highly valued for its high protein content, nitrogen-fixing properties, and ability to improve soil health, making it a cornerstone crop for sustainable agriculture. The international trade in these seeds is driven by the demand from dairy and beef farmers, as well as those involved in hay production. Importers are typically agricultural regions with significant livestock populations or those looking to enhance soil fertility. Exporters are often countries with well-developed seed production industries and suitable climates for alfalfa cultivation. Key things to know include the specific variety (e.g., dormancy rating, disease resistance), whether it's coated or uncoated, and its suitability for different climatic zones. The market is influenced by global meat and dairy prices, drought conditions affecting forage availability, and advancements in seed breeding for improved yields and resilience. The EUDR tag is not applicable as these are seeds for sowing, not a commodity directly linked to deforestation risk for consumption.

Products Under This Code

Dormant alfalfa seeds, Non-dormant alfalfa seeds, Organic alfalfa seeds, Roundup Ready alfalfa seeds, Disease-resistant alfalfa seeds, Coated alfalfa seeds, Uncoated alfalfa seeds

Real World Examples

Pioneer Alfalfa Seeds, Forage Genetics International Alfalfa, DLF Alfalfa Seeds, Barenbrug Alfalfa Seeds

Common Misclassification

This code might be confused with 121410 (lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets) which is the processed forage, or with other forage plant seeds under 120929 if the specific type is not identified.

Products Classified Under 1209.21

Alfalfa seedsLucerne seeds

Related Codes

1209.10 Seed; sugar beet seeds, of a kind used for sowing 1209.22 Seeds of forage plants; clover (Trifolium spp.) seeds, of a kind used for sowing 1209.23 Seeds of forage plants; fescue seeds, of a kind used for sowing 1209.24 Seeds of forage plants; Kentucky blue grass (Poa pratensis L.) seeds, of a kind used for sowing 1209.25 Seeds of forage plants; rye grass (Lolium multiflorum Lam., Lolium perenne L.) seeds, of a kind used for sowing 1209.29 Seeds of forage plants; other than lucerne, clover, fescue, Kentucky blue grass, and rye grass seeds, of a kind used for sowing 1209.30 Seeds of herbaceous plants; cultivated principally for their flowers, of a kind used for sowing 1209.91 Seeds; vegetable seeds, of a kind used for sowing 1209.99 Seeds; n.e.c. in heading 1209, of a kind used for sowing

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

Top importers include the US, Canada, and the EU, with major exporters being the US, Canada, and Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 120921?

HS code 120921 covers: Seeds of forage plants; lucerne (alfalfa) seeds, of a kind used for sowing. Lucerne (alfalfa) seeds, specifically those for sowing, are a vital component of the global forage industry, crucial for livestock feed production. Alfalfa is highly valued for its high protein content, nitrogen-fixing properties, and ability to improve soil health, making it a cornerstone crop for sustainable agriculture. The international trade in these seeds is driven by the demand from dairy and beef farmers, as well as those involved in hay production. Importers are typically agricultural regions with significant livestock populations or those looking to enhance soil fertility. Exporters are often countries with well-developed seed production industries and suitable climates for alfalfa cultivation. Key things to know include the specific variety (e.g., dormancy rating, disease resistance), whether it's coated or uncoated, and its suitability for different climatic zones. The market is influenced by global meat and dairy prices, drought conditions affecting forage availability, and advancements in seed breeding for improved yields and resilience. The EUDR tag is not applicable as these are seeds for sowing, not a commodity directly linked to deforestation risk for consumption.

What products fall under HS code 120921?

Dormant alfalfa seeds, Non-dormant alfalfa seeds, Organic alfalfa seeds, Roundup Ready alfalfa seeds, Disease-resistant alfalfa seeds, Coated alfalfa seeds, Uncoated alfalfa seeds

What are common misclassifications for HS code 120921?

This code might be confused with 121410 (lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets) which is the processed forage, or with other forage plant seeds under 120929 if the specific type is not identified.

How is HS code 120921 structured?

HS code 120921 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (12) 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.