Product classification

HS code for Ground nutmeg: 0908.12

Spices, nutmeg, crushed or ground.

Classification of ground nutmeg under HS 0908.12

Ground nutmeg is classified under HS code 090812. Nutmeg is the dried kernel of the seed of the Myristica fragrans tree. In the Harmonized System, spices are grouped in Chapter 9, and heading 0908 is dedicated to nutmeg, mace, and cardamoms. Subheading 090812 specifically covers nutmeg that has been subjected to a crushing or grinding process. This classification is determined by the physical form of the spice at the time of import. According to Chapter 9 notes, the inclusion of small amounts of substances added for preservation or to enhance aroma does not affect the classification, provided the product retains the essential character of the spice. However, the product must not be a mixture of different spices.

Covers
  • Nutmeg powder
  • Grated nutmeg
  • Crushed nutmeg seeds
  • Ground nutmeg for culinary applications
Also under 0908.12
  • McCormick Ground Nutmeg
  • Simply Organic Ground Nutmeg
  • Frontier Co-op Organic Ground Nutmeg
  • Badia Ground Nutmeg

Codes often confused with 0908.12

Common mistake. Ground nutmeg is often misclassified under HS code 090811, which is the code for whole nutmeg seeds. Another common mistake is using HS code 090822, which is for ground mace; although they originate from the same plant, they are classified separately. Additionally, nutmeg oleoresins or essential oils are often confused with the ground spice, but these must be classified under heading 3301. If the nutmeg is mixed with salt or other seasonings, it may fall under 210390 as a mixed condiment.

0908.11Spices; nutmeg, neither crushed nor ground0908.22Spices; mace, crushed or ground33.01Oils; essential (concretes, absolutes); concentrates thereof in fats, fixed oils, waxes or the like (obtained by enfleurage or maceration); aqueous distillates, solutions and terpenic by-products thereof; resinoids; extracted oleoresins2103.90Sauces and preparations therefor; mixed condiments and mixed seasonings

Top exporters and importers of HS 090812 (the code used for ground nutmeg), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 090812 (the code used for ground nutmeg) in UN Comtrade data was Indonesia, with 30% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 15% 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 090812, not only ground nutmeg.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 Indonesia $27M
  2. 2 Vietnam* ~$14M
  3. 3 Netherlands $14M

World total: $91M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 United States $14M
  2. 2 Netherlands $11M
  3. 3 Germany $11M

World total: $88M 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 ground nutmeg

Brazil classifies ground nutmeg under NCM 0908.12.00: HS 0908.12 with 00 added.

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about ground nutmeg

What is the HS code for Ground nutmeg?

The HS code for Ground nutmeg is 090812 (Spices; nutmeg, crushed or ground). The HS code for ground nutmeg is 090812, which specifically denotes the crushed or ground form of the spice.

How do I classify Ground nutmeg for customs?

Ground nutmeg is classified under HS code 090812 — Spices; nutmeg, crushed or ground. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Can this code be used for nutmeg oil?

No, nutmeg oil is an essential oil and is classified under HS code 330129. HS code 090812 is strictly for the physical spice in ground form.

Which countries are the top exporters of ground nutmeg (HS 090812)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 090812 (the code used for ground nutmeg) in UN Comtrade data were Indonesia ($27M, 30% of world exports), Vietnam (about $14M) and the Netherlands ($14M). World exports came to about $91M, 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 ground nutmeg (HS 090812)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 090812 (the code used for ground nutmeg) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($14M, 15% of world imports), the Netherlands ($11M) and Germany ($11M). World imports came to about $88M, 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 Ground nutmeg the same in all countries?

The base HS code 090812 for Ground nutmeg 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 ground nutmeg in Brazil?

In Brazil, ground nutmeg (HS 090812) is classified under NCM 0908.12.00.