HS Code for Fonio

Fonio is classified under HS code 1008.40. As a member of the Digitaria genus, fonio is categorized within Chapter 10, which covers cereals. Specifically, heading 1008 is for buckwheat, millet, and canary seeds, as well as other cereals. In the 2022 updates to the Harmonized System, fonio was granted its own specific subheading (1008.40) to better track the trade of this ancient grain, which is primarily grown in West Africa. The classification applies to the grain in its raw or husked form, provided it has not been further processed into flour or meal. Fonio is valued for its nutritional properties and resilience in arid climates, and its specific classification helps in monitoring its growing presence in international health food markets. The grain must be in its cereal form; if it is worked (e.g., pearled or kibbled), it might move to Chapter 11. However, standard husked fonio remains firmly in 1008.40. This specific code allows for more accurate data collection regarding the export of Digitaria exilis and Digitaria iburua, which were previously grouped with other minor cereals.

Products Included

• White fonio (Digitaria exilis) grains
• Black fonio (Digitaria iburua) grains
• Husked or dried fonio seeds
• Raw fonio for human consumption
• Whole grain fonio for food processing

Common Misclassification

Fonio is often misclassified under HS code 1008.29, which is the code for other types of millet. While fonio is sometimes called hungry rice or acha, it is botanically distinct from the millets covered in 1008.21 and 1008.29. Another error is using HS code 1104.29, which applies to grains that have been hulled, pearled, or otherwise worked beyond simple husking. If the fonio is ground into flour, it must be classified under 1102.90 as cereal flour.

FAQ

What is the HS code for fonio?

The specific HS code for fonio (Digitaria spp.) is 1008.40.

Is fonio classified as millet?

While similar, fonio has its own dedicated code (1008.40) and should not be classified under the general millet code (1008.29).