HS Code Subheading

Sugars; molasses, from sugar cane, resulting from the extraction or refining of sugar

1703.10 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 170310

This HS code specifically covers molasses derived from sugar cane, a viscous byproduct of sugar extraction or refining. Cane molasses is a significant commodity in international trade, primarily used in animal feed formulations due to its energy content and palatability. It is also a key raw material for fermentation processes, producing ethanol, rum, and other industrial chemicals, and finds use in some food products like baking and sauces. Trade volumes are substantial, often in bulk, and are closely linked to global sugar cane production. Importers are typically livestock farmers, ethanol producers, and food manufacturers, while exporters are major sugar-producing nations.

Products Under This Code

Cane molasses, blackstrap molasses, industrial cane molasses, feed grade cane molasses, edible cane molasses, liquid cane molasses, fermentation molasses

Real World Examples

Cargill (cane molasses), Louis Dreyfus Company (cane molasses), Bunge (cane molasses), ASR Group (molasses), Westway Feed Products (molasses)

Common Misclassification

The primary confusion is with 170390, which covers molasses from sugar beet. The botanical origin (sugar cane vs. sugar beet) is the critical distinguishing factor.

Products Classified Under 1703.10

Industry

This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.

Trade Overview

Top importers include USA, Netherlands, UK; top exporters are Brazil, India, Thailand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 170310?

HS code 170310 covers: Sugars; molasses, from sugar cane, resulting from the extraction or refining of sugar. This HS code specifically covers molasses derived from sugar cane, a viscous byproduct of sugar extraction or refining. Cane molasses is a significant commodity in international trade, primarily used in animal feed formulations due to its energy content and palatability. It is also a key raw material for fermentation processes, producing ethanol, rum, and other industrial chemicals, and finds use in some food products like baking and sauces. Trade volumes are substantial, often in bulk, and are closely linked to global sugar cane production. Importers are typically livestock farmers, ethanol producers, and food manufacturers, while exporters are major sugar-producing nations.

What products fall under HS code 170310?

Cane molasses, blackstrap molasses, industrial cane molasses, feed grade cane molasses, edible cane molasses, liquid cane molasses, fermentation molasses

What are common misclassifications for HS code 170310?

The primary confusion is with 170390, which covers molasses from sugar beet. The botanical origin (sugar cane vs. sugar beet) is the critical distinguishing factor.

How is HS code 170310 structured?

HS code 170310 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (17) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (03) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (10) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.