HS Code for Instant tea
Instant tea is classified under HS code 2101.20. Similar to instant coffee, this classification is based on the product being an extract, essence, or concentrate of the original plant material—in this case, tea (Camellia sinensis) or mate. The manufacturing process involves brewing tea leaves to create a concentrated liquid, which is then dried into a soluble powder. Because the product is no longer the vegetable leaf itself but a processed derivative, it is excluded from Chapter 9 (Coffee, Tea, and Spices) and placed in Chapter 21 (Miscellaneous edible preparations). Heading 2101 specifically addresses extracts of tea or mate, and subheading 2101.20 covers both the pure extracts and preparations based on these extracts. The classification follows the same logic as coffee extracts, where the industrial processing of the tea leaves into a soluble form necessitates a move to the miscellaneous edible preparations chapter. This ensures that processed beverage bases are distinguished from raw agricultural commodities.
Products Included
- Soluble tea powder (instant tea)
- Liquid tea concentrates for beverage systems
- Instant green tea extracts
- Instant mate extracts and concentrates
- Powdered tea essences for industrial food use
Common Misclassification
Instant tea is often misclassified under HS code 0902, which is reserved for tea leaves, whether or not flavored or fermented. If the product is soluble in water without leaving a residue of leaves, it belongs in 2101.20. Another area of confusion is HS code 2106.90 (Food preparations not elsewhere specified). While 2106 is a "basket" category, 2101.20 is more specific for tea-based extracts and should take precedence according to the General Rules of Interpretation.
FAQ
What is the HS code for instant tea?
The HS code for extracts, essences, and concentrates of tea or mate is 2101.20.
Does this include iced tea mix?
Yes, if the iced tea mix is based on tea extracts, it is classified under 2101.20, even if it contains sugar or other additives.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Instant tea?
The HS code for Instant tea is 210120 (Extracts, essences and concentrates; of tea or mate, and preparations with a basis of these extracts, essences or concentrates or with a basis of tea or mate).
How do I classify Instant tea for customs?
Instant tea is classified under HS code 210120 — Extracts, essences and concentrates; of tea or mate, and preparations with a basis of these extracts, essences or concentrates or with a basis of tea or mate. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Instant tea the same in all countries?
The base HS code 210120 for Instant tea is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.