HS Code for Soy flour

Soy flour is classified under HS code 1208.10, which specifically covers flours and meals of soya beans. This classification is determined by the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) and the specific notes of Chapter 12, which encompasses oil seeds and oleaginous fruits. Unlike cereal flours found in Chapter 11, flours derived from oil-rich seeds like soybeans are grouped here because the primary nature of the source material is an oilseed. The classification applies regardless of whether the flour is full-fat, low-fat, or defatted, provided it has not been processed to the point of being a residue from oil extraction intended for animal feed. The grinding process must result in a fine powder to meet the definition of flour under this heading.

Products Included

• Full-fat soy flour
• Defatted soy flour (not for animal feed)
• Low-fat soy flour
• Enzyme-active soy flour
• Toasted soy flour

Common Misclassification

A frequent point of confusion involves HS code 2304.00. While 1208.10 is for flour intended for human consumption or general industrial use, 2304.00 is reserved for oil-cake and other solid residues resulting from the extraction of soya-bean oil, typically used for animal fodder. Additionally, some importers mistakenly look at heading 11.06, which covers flours of leguminous vegetables; however, because soybeans are oilseeds, they are specifically excluded from Chapter 11 and must remain in Chapter 12.

FAQ

What is the HS code for soy flour?

The primary HS code for soy flour is 1208.10, which covers flours and meals of soya beans.

Is defatted soy flour classified differently?

No, defatted soy flour is still classified under 1208.10, provided it is produced as a primary product. If it is a byproduct residue from oil extraction, it may move to 2304.00.