HS Code for African cherry bark

HS 121160 specifically covers the bark of the African cherry tree (Prunus africana). The critical aspect of this classification is its intended use: primarily in perfumery, pharmacy, or for insecticidal, fungicidal, or similar purposes. This distinguishes it from bark used for other applications, such as fuel or general botanical specimens. The code also accommodates various states of the bark, including fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried, and whether it has been cut, crushed, or powdered, reflecting common forms in which this product is traded. This precise definition ensures that the specific medicinal and aromatic properties of African cherry bark are recognized for classification purposes.

Products Included

• Fresh African cherry bark (Prunus africana)
• Dried African cherry bark (Prunus africana)
• Crushed African cherry bark for pharmaceutical use
• Powdered African cherry bark for perfumery
• African cherry bark extracts (if still primarily bark material)

Common Misclassification

Other HS codes often confused with 121160 include: HS 121190 (Plants and parts of plants, including seeds and fruits, of a kind used primarily in perfumery, in pharmacy or for insecticidal, fungicidal or similar purposes, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not cut, crushed or powdered; other). This is a residual category for other plants or parts of plants used for similar purposes. African cherry bark has its own specific subheading (121160), so it should not be classified under this broader "other" category. HS 140490 (Vegetable products not elsewhere specified or included; other). This code is for general vegetable products not covered elsewhere. African cherry bark, with its specific uses, is explicitly covered by 121160 and thus would not fall into this general category. HS 4401 (Fuel wood, in logs, billets, twigs, faggots or similar forms; wood in chips or particles; sawdust and wood waste and scrap, whether or not agglomerated in logs, briquettes, pellets or similar forms). If African cherry bark were intended for fuel, it would be classified under Chapter 44. However, 121160 specifically targets its use in perfumery, pharmacy, or as an insecticide/fungicide.

FAQ

What is the HS code for African cherry bark?

The Harmonized System (HS) code for African cherry bark (Prunus africana), when used primarily in perfumery, pharmacy, or for insecticidal/fungicidal purposes, is 121160. This applies regardless of whether it is fresh, dried, cut, crushed, or powdered.

Does HS 121160 cover African cherry bark used for general decorative purposes?

No, HS 121160 specifically applies to African cherry bark used primarily in perfumery, pharmacy, or for insecticidal/fungicidal purposes. If the bark is intended for general decorative use or other non-specified purposes, it would likely fall under a different HS code, such as a general vegetable product category.