HS Code Subheading

Rum and other spirits obtained by distilling fermented sugar-cane products

2208.40 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 220840

This HS code covers rum and other spirits obtained by distilling fermented sugar-cane products, such as molasses or sugarcane juice. It's a diverse category with a rich history, particularly in the Caribbean and Latin America. The trade is influenced by regional styles (e.g., light vs. dark, agricole vs. industrial rum, cachaça), cocktail trends, and a growing appreciation for aged and premium rums. Importers are distributors and retailers in markets with strong cocktail cultures or historical ties to rum-producing regions. Exporters are primarily countries in the Caribbean, Central, and South America, leveraging their sugarcane agriculture and traditional distillation methods. The origin, raw material (molasses vs. juice), and aging process are key factors in its global trade.

Products Under This Code

White rum, dark rum, spiced rum, aged rum, rhum agricole, cachaça, aguardiente de caña, overproof rum.

Real World Examples

Bacardi Superior, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Havana Club Añejo 3 Años, Appleton Estate Reserve Blend, Cachaça 51.

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with 2208.90 (other spirits) if the sugarcane origin is not clearly specified, or 2208.30 (whiskies) if generic 'brown spirit' classification is used.

Products Classified Under 2208.40

Rum

Industry

This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.

Trade Overview

Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Brazil are key exporters, while the USA, UK, and Germany are significant importers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 220840?

HS code 220840 covers: Rum and other spirits obtained by distilling fermented sugar-cane products. This HS code covers rum and other spirits obtained by distilling fermented sugar-cane products, such as molasses or sugarcane juice. It's a diverse category with a rich history, particularly in the Caribbean and Latin America. The trade is influenced by regional styles (e.g., light vs. dark, agricole vs. industrial rum, cachaça), cocktail trends, and a growing appreciation for aged and premium rums. Importers are distributors and retailers in markets with strong cocktail cultures or historical ties to rum-producing regions. Exporters are primarily countries in the Caribbean, Central, and South America, leveraging their sugarcane agriculture and traditional distillation methods. The origin, raw material (molasses vs. juice), and aging process are key factors in its global trade.

What products fall under HS code 220840?

White rum, dark rum, spiced rum, aged rum, rhum agricole, cachaça, aguardiente de caña, overproof rum.

What are common misclassifications for HS code 220840?

Can be confused with 2208.90 (other spirits) if the sugarcane origin is not clearly specified, or 2208.30 (whiskies) if generic 'brown spirit' classification is used.

How is HS code 220840 structured?

HS code 220840 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (22) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (08) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (40) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.