HS Code for Couscous

Couscous is classified under HS code 1902.40. This code is situated within Chapter 19, which encompasses preparations of cereals, flour, starch, or milk. Heading 1902 is specifically for pasta, whether or not cooked or stuffed (with meat or other substances) or otherwise prepared, such as spaghetti, macaroni, noodles, lasagna, gnocchi, ravioli, and cannelloni. Subheading 1902.40 is the specific international designation for couscous. While couscous is technically a processed grain product made from semolina, the Harmonized System treats it as a form of pasta due to its preparation method. This classification applies regardless of whether the couscous is in its basic dried form or has been pre-cooked or flavored, provided it retains the essential character of couscous. The classification is straightforward because couscous is explicitly named in the subheading, which takes precedence over more general cereal preparation codes.

Products Included

• Unprepared dried couscous
• Pre-cooked (instant) couscous
• Flavored or seasoned couscous
• Whole wheat couscous
• Israeli (pearl) couscous

Common Misclassification

Couscous is sometimes misclassified under HS code 1103.11, which covers groats and meal of wheat. However, because couscous has undergone a specific preparation process (steaming and drying), it moves from Chapter 11 to Chapter 19. It may also be confused with 1904.10, which covers prepared foods obtained by the swelling or roasting of cereals, but 1902.40 is the more specific and correct code.

FAQ

What is the HS code for couscous?

The HS code for couscous is 1902.40.

Is flavored couscous classified differently?

No, flavored or seasoned couscous remains under 1902.40 as long as the couscous remains the primary ingredient.