About HS Code 180500
This code covers cocoa powder that does not contain any added sugar or other sweetening matter. It is produced by pressing cocoa liquor (180310) to remove most of the cocoa butter, leaving behind cocoa solids which are then ground into a fine powder. This unsweetened cocoa powder is a versatile ingredient widely used in baking, beverages, desserts, and industrial food production. It comes in various fat contents and can be natural (acidic) or Dutch-processed (alkalized for darker color and milder flavor). Major importers include countries with large food manufacturing sectors and strong consumer demand for baking ingredients, such as the USA, Germany, and the UK. Leading exporters are nations with significant cocoa processing capabilities like the Netherlands, Côte d'Ivoire, and Malaysia. The EUDR requires traceability of the original cocoa beans to ensure sustainable sourcing.
Products Under This Code
Unsweetened cocoa powder, natural cocoa powder, Dutch-process cocoa powder, baking cocoa, low-fat cocoa powder
Real World Examples
Hershey's Natural Unsweetened Cocoa, Ghirardelli Unsweetened Cocoa, Valrhona Pure Cocoa Powder, Droste Cacao
Common Misclassification
The critical distinction is the absence of added sugar, differentiating it from 180610 (cocoa powder with added sugar). It's also distinct from cocoa paste (1803) due to its powdered form and lower fat/moisture content.
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 1805.00
Industry
This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.
Trade Overview
The USA, Germany, and the UK are major importers, with the Netherlands, Côte d'Ivoire, and Malaysia being key exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 180500?
HS code 180500 covers: Cocoa; powder, not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter. This code covers cocoa powder that does not contain any added sugar or other sweetening matter. It is produced by pressing cocoa liquor (180310) to remove most of the cocoa butter, leaving behind cocoa solids which are then ground into a fine powder. This unsweetened cocoa powder is a versatile ingredient widely used in baking, beverages, desserts, and industrial food production. It comes in various fat contents and can be natural (acidic) or Dutch-processed (alkalized for darker color and milder flavor). Major importers include countries with large food manufacturing sectors and strong consumer demand for baking ingredients, such as the USA, Germany, and the UK. Leading exporters are nations with significant cocoa processing capabilities like the Netherlands, Côte d'Ivoire, and Malaysia. The EUDR requires traceability of the original cocoa beans to ensure sustainable sourcing.
What products fall under HS code 180500?
Unsweetened cocoa powder, natural cocoa powder, Dutch-process cocoa powder, baking cocoa, low-fat cocoa powder
What are common misclassifications for HS code 180500?
The critical distinction is the absence of added sugar, differentiating it from 180610 (cocoa powder with added sugar). It's also distinct from cocoa paste (1803) due to its powdered form and lower fat/moisture content.
How is HS code 180500 structured?
HS code 180500 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (18) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (05) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.