About HS Code 121291
This HS code specifically covers sugar beet, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried, that is fit for human consumption. While primarily cultivated for its high sucrose content to produce refined sugar, sugar beet can also be processed into other food-grade products like molasses or dried pulp for animal feed (when fit for human consumption). It is a major agricultural commodity, particularly in temperate climates, forming a significant part of the global sugar supply. Importers are typically sugar refineries, food processors, and agricultural cooperatives. Exporters are often large agricultural nations with established sugar beet industries. Key aspects of trade include seasonal harvesting, efficient transportation to processing facilities, and quality control based on sugar content and purity.
Products Under This Code
Fresh sugar beet, dried sugar beet pulp (food grade), sugar beet juice (raw), sugar beet molasses (food grade), sugar beet slices (raw).
Real World Examples
American Crystal Sugar Company, Südzucker AG, British Sugar plc, Michigan Sugar Company, Cristal Union.
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with 121299 (other sugar-containing plants) if not specifically sugar beet, or 0706 (carrots, turnips) if mistaken for a root vegetable not primarily for sugar.
Products Classified Under 1212.91
Industry
This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.
Trade Overview
Top producers and consumers are in Europe (France, Germany, Russia) and the United States, driving significant intra-regional trade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 121291?
HS code 121291 covers: Sugar beet; fit for human consumption, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not ground. This HS code specifically covers sugar beet, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried, that is fit for human consumption. While primarily cultivated for its high sucrose content to produce refined sugar, sugar beet can also be processed into other food-grade products like molasses or dried pulp for animal feed (when fit for human consumption). It is a major agricultural commodity, particularly in temperate climates, forming a significant part of the global sugar supply. Importers are typically sugar refineries, food processors, and agricultural cooperatives. Exporters are often large agricultural nations with established sugar beet industries. Key aspects of trade include seasonal harvesting, efficient transportation to processing facilities, and quality control based on sugar content and purity.
What products fall under HS code 121291?
Fresh sugar beet, dried sugar beet pulp (food grade), sugar beet juice (raw), sugar beet molasses (food grade), sugar beet slices (raw).
What are common misclassifications for HS code 121291?
Can be confused with 121299 (other sugar-containing plants) if not specifically sugar beet, or 0706 (carrots, turnips) if mistaken for a root vegetable not primarily for sugar.
How is HS code 121291 structured?
HS code 121291 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (12) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (12) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (91) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.