About HS Code 180400
This HS code specifically covers cocoa butter, fat, and oil, which is the pure fat extracted from cocoa beans. Highly prized for its unique melting properties, smooth texture, and mild chocolate aroma, cocoa butter is an essential ingredient in high-quality chocolate, giving it its characteristic snap and melt-in-your-mouth feel. Beyond confectionery, it's also used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other food applications. International trade in cocoa butter is substantial, with major chocolate-producing and cosmetic industries in countries like the Netherlands, USA, and Germany being top importers. Exporters are typically cocoa-processing nations such as Côte d'Ivoire, Malaysia, and Ghana. The EUDR applies, requiring due diligence to ensure the cocoa beans from which the butter is extracted are sustainably sourced and deforestation-free, impacting global supply chains.
Products Under This Code
Cocoa butter, cocoa fat, cocoa oil, deodorized cocoa butter, natural cocoa butter
Real World Examples
Callebaut cocoa butter, Valrhona cocoa butter, Ghirardelli cocoa butter, Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula
Common Misclassification
Should not be confused with other vegetable fats and oils under Chapter 15, as cocoa butter has specific chemical and physical properties that differentiate it.
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 1804.00
Industry
This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.
Trade Overview
The Netherlands, USA, and Germany are leading importers, while Côte d'Ivoire, Malaysia, and Ghana are primary exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 180400?
HS code 180400 covers: Cocoa; butter, fat and oil. This HS code specifically covers cocoa butter, fat, and oil, which is the pure fat extracted from cocoa beans. Highly prized for its unique melting properties, smooth texture, and mild chocolate aroma, cocoa butter is an essential ingredient in high-quality chocolate, giving it its characteristic snap and melt-in-your-mouth feel. Beyond confectionery, it's also used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other food applications. International trade in cocoa butter is substantial, with major chocolate-producing and cosmetic industries in countries like the Netherlands, USA, and Germany being top importers. Exporters are typically cocoa-processing nations such as Côte d'Ivoire, Malaysia, and Ghana. The EUDR applies, requiring due diligence to ensure the cocoa beans from which the butter is extracted are sustainably sourced and deforestation-free, impacting global supply chains.
What products fall under HS code 180400?
Cocoa butter, cocoa fat, cocoa oil, deodorized cocoa butter, natural cocoa butter
What are common misclassifications for HS code 180400?
Should not be confused with other vegetable fats and oils under Chapter 15, as cocoa butter has specific chemical and physical properties that differentiate it.
How is HS code 180400 structured?
HS code 180400 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (18) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.