HS Code for Sake

Sake, a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage produced by fermenting rice, is classified under HS code 2206.00. This heading covers \"Other fermented beverages (for example, cider, perry, mead, sake); mixtures of fermented beverages and non-alcoholic beverages, not elsewhere specified or included.\" The classification is based on the production process: fermentation without distillation. Unlike wine made from grapes, which is classified under heading 2204, or beer made from malt, which falls under 2203, sake is a fermented beverage derived from grain (rice). The Harmonized System groups fermented beverages that do not fit the specific definitions of wine or beer into this residual category. It is important to note that the alcohol content does not change the heading, provided the beverage remains a fermented product and has not been distilled. If the product were distilled, it would move to Chapter 2208.

Products Included

• Junmai sake
• Honjozo sake
• Ginjo and Daiginjo sake
• Nigori (unfiltered) sake
• Sparkling fermented sake

Common Misclassification

Sake is often misclassified under HS code 2204.21, which is reserved for grape wine. Because sake is frequently referred to as \"rice wine,\" customs brokers may default to the wine heading. However, 2204 is strictly for beverages made from fresh grapes. Another common error is using 2208.90 (spirits) for high-alcohol sake; however, unless the sake has been distilled to increase its strength, it remains under 2206.00.

FAQ

What is the HS code for sake?

The HS code for sake is 2206.00, which covers fermented beverages other than grape wine or malt beer.

Is flavored sake classified differently?

Generally, no. If the base is fermented sake and it is mixed with non-alcoholic flavorings, it typically remains under 2206.00 as a mixture of a fermented beverage and non-alcoholic beverages.