HS Code for Cocoa powder

Cocoa powder is classified under HS code 1805.00. This heading is reserved for cocoa powder that does not contain any added sugar or other sweetening matter. The classification process follows the logic that cocoa powder is a derivative of cocoa paste (1803) that has had a significant portion of its fat (cocoa butter) removed through mechanical pressing. The remaining "cake" is then pulverized into a fine powder. Under the Harmonized System, the absence of sweeteners is the primary criterion for this code. If the powder were to include sucrose, lactose, or artificial sweeteners, it would immediately shift to heading 1806. The powder can be "natural" or "alkalized" (treated with an alkaline substance like potassium carbonate to neutralize acidity and darken the color), and both types remain under 1805.00 as long as they are unsweetened. This code is a single-dash heading, meaning it does not have further sub-divisions based on fat content, unlike cocoa paste.

Products Included

• Natural cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• Alkalized or Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• Low-fat cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• Pure cocoa powder for industrial baking

Common Misclassification

The most common error is classifying sweetened cocoa mixes under 1805.00. Sweetened cocoa powder belongs under HS code 1806.10. Additionally, cocoa powder containing added milk powder or other substances is classified under 1806.90. It is also distinct from cocoa paste (1803), which is the unpulverized form.

FAQ

What is the HS code for cocoa powder?

The HS code for pure, unsweetened cocoa powder is 1805.00.

Is sweetened cocoa powder under this code?

No, cocoa powder with added sugar or sweeteners is classified under HS code 1806.10.