HS Code for Green coffee beans

Green coffee beans are classified under HS code 0901.11, which falls within Chapter 09 covering coffee, tea, mate, and spices. Heading 0901 is the primary category for coffee, whether or not roasted or decaffeinated. The subheading 0901.11 is specifically designated for coffee that is \"not roasted\" and \"not decaffeinated.\" These are the raw, dried seeds of the Coffea plant, typically after the fruit (cherry) has been removed through either the dry or wet process. At this stage, the beans are hard, green to yellowish in color, and possess a grassy aroma rather than the characteristic scent of roasted coffee. The classification is strictly based on the absence of thermal processing (roasting) and the retention of the natural caffeine content. If the beans were to undergo a decaffeination process while remaining unroasted, they would move to a different subheading. This code is vital for international trade as it distinguishes the raw agricultural commodity from the processed food product, often carrying different tariff rates and phytosanitary requirements. The term \"not roasted\" implies that the beans have not been subjected to temperatures high enough to cause the Maillard reaction, which develops the flavor and color of coffee. The beans must also be \"not decaffeinated,\" meaning they contain their natural level of caffeine, typically ranging from 1% to 2.5% depending on the species. It is also important to note that this code covers beans in their various stages of raw processing, including \"in cherry\" (the whole dried fruit) and \"in parchment\" (the bean with the endocarp still attached). However, once the beans are roasted, they move to 0901.21. This classification does not cover coffee husks and skins or coffee substitutes containing coffee, which are found in other parts of heading 0901.

Products Included

• Arabica green coffee beans
• Robusta green coffee beans
• Unroasted coffee cherries (dried)
• Coffee in parchment (unroasted)

Common Misclassification

Green coffee beans are often misclassified under 0901.12 if the importer fails to specify that the beans are not decaffeinated. They are also frequently confused with 0901.21, which is the code for roasted coffee. Furthermore, coffee husks and skins should be classified under 0901.90 rather than 0901.11.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Green coffee beans?

The HS code for green coffee beans (not roasted and not decaffeinated) is 0901.11.

Does this code include decaffeinated raw beans?

No, decaffeinated unroasted coffee beans are classified under HS code 0901.12.