HS Code for Fresh orange juice

Fresh orange juice is classified under HS code 2009.12 because it falls within Chapter 20, which covers preparations of vegetables, fruit, nuts, or other parts of plants. Specifically, heading 2009 applies to fruit juices and vegetable juices, unfermented and not containing added spirit. The subheading 2009.12 is designated for orange juice that is not frozen and possesses a Brix value not exceeding 20. The Brix value is a measure of the sugar content in an aqueous solution, and for orange juice, a value of 20 or less typically indicates a natural or slightly sweetened state that has not been concentrated. Classification is determined by General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since the product is fresh (not frozen) and meets the Brix threshold, it is excluded from 2009.11 (frozen) and 2009.19 (other, such as concentrates).

Products Included

• Freshly squeezed orange juice
• Pasteurized orange juice (not frozen)
• Chilled orange juice with pulp
• Orange juice with added sugar (Brix ≤ 20)
• Reconstituted orange juice (if not frozen and Brix ≤ 20)

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with HS code 2009.11, which is strictly reserved for frozen orange juice. Another common error involves HS code 2009.19; this code is used for orange juice with a Brix value exceeding 20, which usually applies to concentrates or highly sweetened syrups. Furthermore, if the orange juice contains added carbonation or significant amounts of other ingredients like milk or excessive water beyond reconstitution, it may be classified under heading 2202 as a beverage rather than a fruit juice.

FAQ

What is the HS code for fresh orange juice?

The HS code for fresh, non-frozen orange juice with a Brix value of 20 or less is 2009.12.

Does this code include orange juice with added vitamins?

Yes, orange juice fortified with vitamins or minerals generally remains under 2009.12, provided it retains the essential character of a fruit juice and does not become a beverage classified under 2202.