HS Code for Locust beans

Locust beans, also known as carob, are classified under HS code 1212.92. Chapter 12 of the Harmonized System covers oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, miscellaneous grains, seeds, and fruit, as well as industrial or medicinal plants and straw. Heading 1212 includes fruit stones and kernels and other vegetable products of a kind used primarily for human consumption, not elsewhere specified. The sub-heading 1212.92 was specifically created for locust beans (carob). This classification applies whether the beans are fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried. It also covers locust beans that have been ground into a coarse or fine powder, provided they have not been further processed into mucilages or thickeners. The classification is determined by the botanical nature of the product and its primary use as a foodstuff or a source for further industrial processing. The carob pod and its seeds are treated as a single agricultural product under this code until they undergo chemical extraction or significant transformation into gums or resins.

Products Included

• Whole dried carob pods
• Kibbled locust beans (crushed pods)
• Carob powder (ground locust beans) for human consumption
• Fresh or chilled locust bean pods

Common Misclassification

Locust beans are frequently misclassified under HS code 1302.32, which is the code for mucilages and thickeners derived from locust beans (Locust Bean Gum). They may also be confused with 1212.91 (sugar beet) or 1212.93 (sugar cane). It is vital to distinguish between the raw or ground bean (1212.92) and the extracted gum (1302.32).

FAQ

What is the HS code for locust beans?

The HS code for locust beans, including carob pods and carob powder, is 1212.92.

Is carob powder classified under this code?

Yes, carob powder is classified under 1212.92, provided it is simply ground locust beans and has not been processed into a thickener or mucilage.