About HS Code 180320
This code covers cocoa paste that has been wholly or partly defatted, meaning some or all of its natural cocoa butter has been removed. This product is a vital intermediate in the production of cocoa powder and certain types of chocolate where a lower fat content is desired. The defatting process separates the cocoa butter (180400) from the cocoa solids, which are then ground into powder (180500). Major importers include countries with large food processing industries, such as the USA, Germany, and the Netherlands, which use this paste to create a variety of cocoa-based products. Key exporters are often nations with significant cocoa processing infrastructure, including Côte d'Ivoire, Malaysia, and Ghana. The EUDR mandates that the cocoa beans from which this paste is derived must be traceable to deforestation-free sources, adding a layer of complexity to international trade.
Products Under This Code
Defatted cocoa liquor, partly defatted cocoa mass, wholly defatted cocoa paste, low-fat chocolate liquor
Real World Examples
Barry Callebaut defatted cocoa mass, Cargill low-fat cocoa liquor, Olam partly defatted cocoa paste
Common Misclassification
The key distinction from 180310 is the defatting process; it can also be confused with 180500 (cocoa powder) if finely ground, but paste retains a higher moisture and fat content than powder.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
Products Classified Under 1803.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.
Trade Overview
Top importers include the USA, Germany, and the Netherlands, with Côte d'Ivoire, Malaysia, and Ghana being major exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 180320?
HS code 180320 covers: Cocoa; paste, wholly or partly defatted. This code covers cocoa paste that has been wholly or partly defatted, meaning some or all of its natural cocoa butter has been removed. This product is a vital intermediate in the production of cocoa powder and certain types of chocolate where a lower fat content is desired. The defatting process separates the cocoa butter (180400) from the cocoa solids, which are then ground into powder (180500). Major importers include countries with large food processing industries, such as the USA, Germany, and the Netherlands, which use this paste to create a variety of cocoa-based products. Key exporters are often nations with significant cocoa processing infrastructure, including Côte d'Ivoire, Malaysia, and Ghana. The EUDR mandates that the cocoa beans from which this paste is derived must be traceable to deforestation-free sources, adding a layer of complexity to international trade.
What products fall under HS code 180320?
Defatted cocoa liquor, partly defatted cocoa mass, wholly defatted cocoa paste, low-fat chocolate liquor
What are common misclassifications for HS code 180320?
The key distinction from 180310 is the defatting process; it can also be confused with 180500 (cocoa powder) if finely ground, but paste retains a higher moisture and fat content than powder.
How is HS code 180320 structured?
HS code 180320 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (18) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (03) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.