HS Code for Dried whole chilies

Dried whole chilies are classified under HS code 0904.21. This classification is governed by Chapter 9 of the Harmonized System, which covers coffee, tea, maté, and spices. Heading 0904 specifically includes pepper of the genus Piper and dried or crushed/ground fruits of the genus Capsicum or Pimenta. The sub-heading 0904.21 is reserved for these fruits when they are dried but "neither crushed nor ground." This means the chilies must be in their whole form, although the stems may be removed. The classification relies on the fact that chilies are commercially treated as spices rather than standard vegetables when dried. If the chilies were fresh, they would fall under Chapter 7, but the drying process for the purpose of spice production moves them to Chapter 9. This code applies to all varieties of the Capsicum genus, including bell peppers and hot chilies, provided they are dried and whole.

Products Included

• Dried whole red chilies
• Dried bird's eye chilies (whole)
• Dried guajillo chilies (whole)
• Dried ancho chilies (whole)
• Dried whole habanero peppers

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification for dried whole chilies is HS code 0904.22, which is for chilies that have been crushed or ground (chili flakes or powder). Another error is using 0712.90, which covers other dried vegetables; however, because Capsicum is specifically named in heading 0904, GRI 1 requires it to be classified there. Additionally, fresh chilies (0709.60) are sometimes confused with dried ones in documentation, leading to customs delays and incorrect duty applications.

FAQ

What is the HS code for dried whole chilies?

The HS code for dried whole chilies is 0904.21.

What if the dried chilies are missing their stems?

They are still classified under 0904.21 as long as the fruit itself is whole and not crushed or ground into flakes or powder.