HS Code for Refined coconut oil

Refined coconut oil is classified under HS code 1513.19. This code is part of Chapter 15 of the Harmonized System, which covers vegetable fats and oils. Heading 1513 specifically includes coconut (copra), palm kernel, or babassu oil. The classification of coconut oil is divided into two main categories: crude and refined. Crude coconut oil, which is the raw oil extracted from the copra (dried coconut meat) without further processing, is classified under 1513.11. Once the oil undergoes refining processes such as neutralization to remove free fatty acids, bleaching to remove pigments, and deodorization to remove volatile odors, it is classified under 1513.19. This subheading also includes fractions of refined coconut oil, provided they have not been chemically modified. The oil must remain a fixed vegetable oil; if it is subjected to hydrogenation (a chemical modification), it would be reclassified under heading 1516.

Products Included

• RBD (Refined, Bleached, Deodorized) coconut oil
• Refined copra oil
• Liquid fractions of refined coconut oil
• Industrial grade refined coconut oil
• Purified coconut oil for cosmetic applications

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification for refined coconut oil is with crude coconut oil, which belongs under HS code 1513.11. Importers must provide processing certificates to justify the refined status. Another common error involves palm kernel oil, which is also under heading 1513 but has different subheadings (1513.21 and 1513.29). While palm kernel oil is similar in fatty acid profile, it is derived from a different part of a different palm species. Additionally, chemically modified coconut oils, such as hydrogenated coconut oil, are classified under 1516.20. If the coconut oil is prepared as a medicament or a retail-packaged hair oil with additives, it may fall under Chapters 30 or 33 respectively.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Refined coconut oil?

Refined coconut oil and its fractions are classified under HS code 1513.19.

Is fractionated coconut oil (MCT oil) classified here?

Yes, if the fractionation is a physical process and the oil has not been chemically modified, it is typically classified under 1513.19.