HS Code for Crude babassu oil

Crude babassu oil is classified under HS code 1513.21. This code is located in Chapter 15, which covers animal or vegetable fats and oils and their cleavage products. Heading 1513 specifically includes coconut (copra), palm kernel, or babassu oil and their fractions, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified. Subheading 1513.21 is the specific designation for the crude version of palm kernel or babassu oil. The classification is based on the botanical origin of the oil—extracted from the kernels of the babassu palm (Attalea speciosa)—and its state of processing. "Crude" oil refers to the product obtained by expression or solvent extraction that has not yet undergone refining processes such as neutralization, bleaching, or deodorization. This oil is high in lauric acid and is used in both food production and industrial applications like soap making. The HS code structure groups babassu oil with palm kernel oil because they share similar chemical properties and fatty acid profiles.

Products Included

• Raw babassu kernel oil
• Unrefined babassu oil
• Expeller-pressed crude babassu oil
• Solvent-extracted crude babassu oil
• Non-chemically modified babassu oil fractions (crude)

Common Misclassification

A common misclassification is HS code 1513.29, which is used for babassu oil that has been refined or further processed. If the oil has been bleached, deodorized, or neutralized, it no longer qualifies as "crude." Another error is confusing babassu oil with standard palm oil (from the fruit pulp), which is classified under heading 1511. Additionally, if the oil has been hydrogenated or chemically modified, it must be moved to heading 1516. Finally, coconut oil, while in the same heading (1513), has its own subheadings (1513.11 for crude), and should not be confused with babassu despite their similar uses.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Crude babassu oil?

The HS code for crude babassu oil is 1513.21.

How is "crude" oil defined for this classification?

For the purposes of HS code 1513.21, "crude" oil is oil that has been extracted from the babassu kernel but has not undergone any refining processes like degumming, deacidification, or bleaching.