HS Code for Crude sunflower oil

HS code 1512.11 is a joint classification for crude sunflower-seed oil and crude safflower oil. These oils are grouped together because they share similar extraction methods and end-use profiles. To be classified under this code, the oil must be extracted from the seeds of Helianthus annuus (sunflower) or Carthamus tinctorius (safflower). The "crude" designation implies that the oil has been obtained through mechanical pressing or solvent extraction and has not been subjected to refining processes such as neutralization, bleaching, or deodorization. The Harmonized System requires that the oil remains in its natural state, although it may have undergone basic physical cleaning such as filtration or centrifugation to remove impurities. It is important to note that even if the oil is intended for technical or industrial use, it remains under this code as long as it is crude. If the oil is refined—meaning it has been treated to remove free fatty acids, pigments, or odors—it moves to subheading 1512.19. Furthermore, the oil must not be chemically modified (e.g., hydrogenated or esterified). Importers should be aware that high-oleic sunflower oil is still classified here if it is crude, as the HS code does not currently distinguish between standard and high-oleic varieties at the six-digit level.

Products Included

• Crude sunflower-seed oil
• Crude safflower oil
• Unrefined sunflower oil fractions
• Crude high-oleic sunflower oil

Common Misclassification

The most common error is misclassifying the product under 1512.19, which is for refined sunflower or safflower oil. Another error involves confusing it with cotton-seed oil (1512.21) or other seed oils in the 1512 heading. Blends of sunflower and other oils must be classified under 1517.90.

FAQ

What is the HS code for crude sunflower oil?

The HS code for crude sunflower oil is 1512.11.

Does this code include safflower oil?

Yes, both crude sunflower-seed oil and crude safflower oil are classified under the same HS code, 1512.11.