HS Code for Clover seeds

Clover seeds intended for sowing are classified under HS code 1209.22. This code is part of Chapter 12, which includes oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, miscellaneous grains, seeds, and fruit, as well as industrial or medicinal plants. Heading 1209 is dedicated to seeds, fruit, and spores of a kind used for sowing. Within this heading, the 1209.2x series covers seeds of forage plants, which are plants grown specifically to be grazed by livestock or harvested as hay or silage. Subheading 1209.22 specifically identifies seeds of the Trifolium species (clover). For a product to be classified here, it must be of a quality and purity suitable for planting and must not be intended for human or animal consumption as a primary foodstuff. Customs authorities often require phytosanitary certificates for items under this code to ensure they do not carry pests or diseases. The classification is straightforward but requires documentation proving the seeds are for sowing purposes. If the seeds have been treated with fungicides or other coatings to enhance growth, they still remain under this code as long as their essential character as seeds for sowing is maintained.

Products Included

• Red clover seeds (Trifolium pratense)
• White clover seeds (Trifolium repens)
• Crimson clover seeds (Trifolium incarnatum)
• Alsike clover seeds (Trifolium hybridum)

Common Misclassification

Clover seeds are often confused with Lucerne (Alfalfa) seeds, which are classified under 1209.21. They may also be misclassified under 1209.91 if mistaken for vegetable seeds, or 1209.99 if the specific forage plant species is not correctly identified by the importer.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Clover seeds?

The specific HS code for clover (Trifolium spp.) seeds used for sowing is 1209.22.

Are clover seeds for sprouts classified here?

If the seeds are intended for human consumption (e.g., for growing sprouts to eat), they may still be classified here if they are "seeds of a kind used for sowing," but local regulations may vary based on end-use.