Product classification
HS code for Algae for food: 1212.21
Seaweeds and other algae, fit for human consumption, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not ground.
Classification of algae for food under HS 1212.21
Algae fit for human consumption is classified under HS code 1212.21. This classification is part of the Harmonized System's effort to categorize food products derived from aquatic plants. Heading 1212 covers a variety of vegetable products, and subheading 1212.21 is specifically carved out for seaweeds and other algae that meet food-grade standards. These products are often used in culinary applications, such as nori for sushi, wakame in soups, or dulse as a snack. To qualify for this code, the algae must be in a relatively primary state—fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried. While it can be ground or sliced, it should not be further prepared with oils, sugars, or seasonings that would change its character into a "prepared food." The distinction between 1212.21 and 1212.29 (non-food) is vital for food safety inspections and tariff applications, as food-grade products are subject to stricter sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures.
- Covers
- Dried Nori sheets (unseasoned)
- Fresh or chilled Wakame
- Dried Kombu
- Frozen sea grapes (Umibudo)
- Spirulina or Chlorella in bulk powder form
- Also under 1212.21
- Annie Chun's (seaweed snacks)
- Ocean's Halo (broths)
- Maine Coast Sea Vegetables
- Emerald Cove Organic Pacific Nori
- Blue Ocean Mariculture (algae).
Codes often confused with 1212.21
Common mistake. A frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 2106.90 (Food preparations not elsewhere specified). This happens when algae is sold in capsules or tablets as a dietary supplement. Once the algae is put up in measured doses, it leaves Chapter 12. Another common error is 2008.99, which applies to roasted seaweed snacks that contain added oil and salt. These are considered prepared vegetables rather than primary agricultural products.
Top exporters and importers of HS 121221 (the code used for algae for food), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 121221 (the code used for algae for food) in UN Comtrade data was South Korea, with 56% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 26% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 121221, not only algae for food.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 South Korea $564M 56% of world exports
- 2 Indonesia $174M 17% of world exports
- 3 China $123M 12% of world exports
World total: $1.0B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Japan $336M 26% of world imports
- 2 China $274M 22% of world imports
- 3 Thailand $103M 8.1% of world imports
World total: $1.3B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for algae for food
Brazil classifies algae for food under NCM 1212.21.00: HS 1212.21 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about algae for food
What is the HS code for Algae for food?
The HS code for Algae for food is 121221 (Seaweeds and other algae; fit for human consumption, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not ground).
How do I classify Algae for food for customs?
Algae for food is classified under HS code 121221 — Seaweeds and other algae; fit for human consumption, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not ground. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the HS code for food-grade seaweed?
The HS code for seaweeds and other algae fit for human consumption is 1212.21.
Is spirulina powder classified under 1212.21?
Yes, pure spirulina powder intended for human consumption is classified under 1212.21, but if it is mixed with other ingredients or put into capsules, the code will change to 2106.90.
Which countries are the top exporters of algae for food (HS 121221)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 121221 (the code used for algae for food) in UN Comtrade data were South Korea ($564M, 56% of world exports), Indonesia ($174M) and China ($123M). World exports came to about $1.0B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of algae for food (HS 121221)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 121221 (the code used for algae for food) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($336M, 26% of world imports), China ($274M) and Thailand ($103M). World imports came to about $1.3B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Algae for food the same in all countries?
The base HS code 121221 for Algae for food is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for algae for food in Brazil?
In Brazil, algae for food (HS 121221) is classified under NCM 1212.21.00.