HS Code Subheading

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

1703.90 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 170390

This category covers molasses derived from sugar beet, another important byproduct of sugar refining, distinct from cane molasses in its composition and flavor profile. Beet molasses is widely utilized in animal feed, particularly in Europe, as a palatable and energy-rich ingredient. It also serves as a raw material for fermentation processes, producing yeast, citric acid, and other biochemicals, and is sometimes used as a soil conditioner. International trade is significant in regions where sugar beet is a primary agricultural crop. Importers are typically animal feed producers and agricultural cooperatives, while exporters are European and North American sugar beet producers.

Products Under This Code

Beet molasses, industrial beet molasses, feed grade beet molasses, liquid beet molasses, desugared beet molasses, sugar beet pulp molasses, fermentation beet molasses

Real World Examples

Südzucker (beet molasses), Nordzucker (beet molasses), Tereos (beet molasses), American Crystal Sugar (beet molasses), Michigan Sugar Company (beet molasses)

Common Misclassification

The main point of confusion is with 170310, which covers molasses from sugar cane. The botanical origin of the sugar (beet vs. cane) is the sole determinant for classification.

Products Classified Under 1703.90

Industry

This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.

Trade Overview

Major importers include Germany, France, Netherlands; top exporters are Germany, France, USA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 170390?

HS code 170390 covers: Sugars; molasses, from sugar beet, resulting from the extraction or refining of sugar. This category covers molasses derived from sugar beet, another important byproduct of sugar refining, distinct from cane molasses in its composition and flavor profile. Beet molasses is widely utilized in animal feed, particularly in Europe, as a palatable and energy-rich ingredient. It also serves as a raw material for fermentation processes, producing yeast, citric acid, and other biochemicals, and is sometimes used as a soil conditioner. International trade is significant in regions where sugar beet is a primary agricultural crop. Importers are typically animal feed producers and agricultural cooperatives, while exporters are European and North American sugar beet producers.

What products fall under HS code 170390?

Beet molasses, industrial beet molasses, feed grade beet molasses, liquid beet molasses, desugared beet molasses, sugar beet pulp molasses, fermentation beet molasses

What are common misclassifications for HS code 170390?

The main point of confusion is with 170310, which covers molasses from sugar cane. The botanical origin of the sugar (beet vs. cane) is the sole determinant for classification.

How is HS code 170390 structured?

HS code 170390 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 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.