HS Code for Spinach
Spinach is classified under HS code 0709.70 according to the nomenclature of Chapter 7, which encompasses edible vegetables and certain roots and tubers. Heading 0709 is reserved for "Other vegetables, fresh or chilled," which serves as a category for vegetables that do not have their own specific heading earlier in the chapter (such as potatoes in 0701 or tomatoes in 0702). Subheading 0709.70 specifically identifies spinach, New Zealand spinach, and orache spinach (garden spinach). The classification requires the product to be in a fresh or chilled state. Chilling refers to the process where the temperature of the product is reduced, generally to around 0°C, without the product being frozen. If the spinach undergoes any significant processing beyond simple cleaning, cooling, or packaging, it may move to a different chapter or heading. For standard agricultural trade of fresh leaves, 0709.70 is the definitive code. The classification remains consistent whether the spinach is sold in bulk crates or pre-packaged bags for retail, provided it has not been cooked or preserved in a way that changes its character as a fresh vegetable.
Products Included
- Fresh baby spinach leaves
- Chilled mature spinach
- New Zealand spinach (Tetragonia tetragonioides)
- Orache spinach (Atriplex hortensis)
- Fresh spinach bunches with roots attached
- Washed and bagged fresh spinach
Common Misclassification
The most frequent misclassification occurs between fresh spinach (0709.70) and frozen spinach, which must be classified under 0710.30. Another common error involves dried spinach, which falls under 0712.90. If the spinach has been prepared or preserved (for example, canned or pickled), it moves to Chapter 20, specifically 2005.99. Importers also occasionally confuse spinach with other leafy greens like kale or cabbage, which are classified under 0704.90.
FAQ
What is the HS code for spinach?
The HS code for fresh or chilled spinach is 0709.70.
Does this code include frozen spinach?
No, frozen spinach is classified under HS code 0710.30. HS code 0709.70 is strictly for fresh or chilled products.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Spinach?
The HS code for Spinach is 070970 (Vegetables; spinach, New Zealand spinach and orache spinach (garden spinach), fresh or chilled).
How do I classify Spinach for customs?
Spinach is classified under HS code 070970 — Vegetables; spinach, New Zealand spinach and orache spinach (garden spinach), fresh or chilled. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Spinach the same in all countries?
The base HS code 070970 for Spinach is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.