Product classification
HS code for Edible seaweed: 1212.21
Seaweeds and other algae, fit for human consumption, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not ground.
Classification of edible seaweed under HS 1212.21
Edible seaweed is classified under HS code 1212.21. This classification is determined by the Harmonized System's General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), specifically GRI 1, which dictates that products are classified according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Chapter 12 covers oil seeds, oleaginous fruits, and miscellaneous grains, but it also encompasses industrial or medicinal plants, including seaweeds. Heading 1212 specifically identifies seaweeds and other algae. The sub-heading 1212.21 is reserved for seaweed and other algae that are fit for human consumption. This classification applies to the product in various physical forms, including fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried. Even if the seaweed has been ground into a fine powder or pressed into sheets, it remains under this code as long as it has not been further prepared with other ingredients or processed into a chemical extract. The distinction is vital because once seaweed is seasoned, roasted, or incorporated into complex food preparations, it may move to Chapter 20 or 21. Furthermore, seaweed intended for non-food uses, such as fertilizers or chemical extraction, is excluded from this specific code and placed under 1212.29.
- Covers
- Dried nori sheets for sushi
- Kombu (dried kelp)
- Wakame for soups and salads
- Dulse and Irish moss for culinary use
- Ground seaweed powder for food flavoring
- Also under 1212.21
- Annie Chun's (seaweed snacks)
- Ocean's Halo (broths)
- Maine Coast Sea Vegetables
- Emerald Cove Organic Pacific Nori
- Blue Ocean Mariculture (algae).
Codes often confused with 1212.21
Common mistake. Edible seaweed is frequently confused with HS code 1212.29, which covers seaweeds and algae that are not fit for human consumption, such as those used for industrial or agricultural purposes. Another common error is classifying processed seaweed under 2106.90 as a food preparation or supplement. Additionally, agar-agar, which is an extract derived from seaweed, is classified under 1302.31 and should not be confused with the raw or dried seaweed itself.
Top exporters and importers of HS 121221 (the code used for edible seaweed), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 121221 (the code used for edible seaweed) in UN Comtrade data was South Korea, with 56% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 26% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 121221, not only edible seaweed.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 South Korea $564M 56% of world exports
- 2 Indonesia $174M 17% of world exports
- 3 China $123M 12% of world exports
World total: $1.0B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Japan $336M 26% of world imports
- 2 China $274M 22% of world imports
- 3 Thailand $103M 8.1% of world imports
World total: $1.3B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for edible seaweed
Brazil classifies edible seaweed under NCM 1212.21.00: HS 1212.21 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about edible seaweed
What is the HS code for Edible seaweed?
The HS code for Edible seaweed is 121221 (Seaweeds and other algae; fit for human consumption, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not ground). The HS code for edible seaweed, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried, is 1212.21.
How do I classify Edible seaweed for customs?
Edible seaweed is classified under HS code 121221 — Seaweeds and other algae; fit for human consumption, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not ground. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is seasoned or roasted seaweed classified under this code?
No, seasoned or roasted seaweed is generally classified under HS code 2008.99 as a prepared vegetable product, as the roasting and seasoning process goes beyond the simple drying or grinding allowed under 1212.21.
Which countries are the top exporters of edible seaweed (HS 121221)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 121221 (the code used for edible seaweed) in UN Comtrade data were South Korea ($564M, 56% of world exports), Indonesia ($174M) and China ($123M). World exports came to about $1.0B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of edible seaweed (HS 121221)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 121221 (the code used for edible seaweed) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($336M, 26% of world imports), China ($274M) and Thailand ($103M). World imports came to about $1.3B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Edible seaweed the same in all countries?
The base HS code 121221 for Edible seaweed is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for edible seaweed in Brazil?
In Brazil, edible seaweed (HS 121221) is classified under NCM 1212.21.00.