HS Code for Pistachios

The classification of pistachios under HS code 0802.52 is determined by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System. Chapter 8 of the Nomenclature covers edible fruit and nuts, as well as peel of citrus fruit or melons. Within this chapter, heading 0802 is reserved for "Other nuts, fresh or dried, whether or not shelled or peeled." The specific subheading 0802.52 is designated for pistachios that have been shelled. This classification applies to the raw kernels of the pistachio nut, which have had their hard outer shell removed but have not undergone further preparation such as roasting or seasoning. The Harmonized System distinguishes between nuts in-shell (0802.51) and those that are shelled (0802.52) to facilitate accurate trade statistics and tariff application. For a product to remain within Chapter 8, it must generally be in a fresh or dried state. If the pistachios are further processed beyond simple drying or shelling—for instance, by being roasted, salted, or preserved in sugar—they move out of Chapter 8 and into Chapter 20, which covers preparations of vegetables, fruit, nuts, or other parts of plants. Specifically, roasted pistachios are often classified under 2008.19. The distinction is critical because Chapter 8 products often face different sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regulations compared to the processed food products in Chapter 20. Additionally, the classification 0802.52 includes kernels that may be whole, halved, or broken, provided they have not been further prepared. The presence of the thin skin (pellicle) on the kernel does not exclude it from being classified as shelled.

Products Included

• Shelled pistachio kernels
• Blanched pistachios (skin removed)
• Halved or broken pistachio kernels
• Dried pistachio kernels without shells
• Raw pistachio meats

Common Misclassification

Pistachios are frequently misclassified under 0802.51, which is specifically for pistachios in-shell. Another common error is using 2008.19, which applies to roasted, salted, or otherwise prepared nuts. If the pistachios have been sweetened or preserved in syrup, they may fall under 2008.11 or other subheadings within Chapter 20.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Pistachios?

The HS code for shelled pistachios is 0802.52, while in-shell pistachios are classified under 0802.51.

Are roasted pistachios classified under 0802.52?

No, roasted or salted pistachios are classified under heading 2008 as prepared nuts, rather than fresh or dried nuts.