HS Code for Tomato juice

Tomato juice is classified under HS code 2009.50. This code is part of Chapter 20, which covers preparations of vegetables, fruit, nuts, or other parts of plants. Heading 2009 is for fruit juices (including grape must) and vegetable juices, unfermented and not containing added spirit, whether or not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter. Sub-heading 2009.50 is specifically for tomato juice. To be classified here, the dry weight content of the tomato juice must be less than 7%. This technical threshold is crucial because it distinguishes juice from concentrates or purees. The juice can be chilled or non-frozen, and it may contain added salt, spices, or sweetening agents, provided it retains the essential character of a juice. This classification is used by customs to apply specific agricultural duties and to monitor the trade of vegetable-based beverages. The unfermented nature of the product is a requirement; if fermented, it would move to Chapter 22.

Products Included

• Canned tomato juice
• Bottled tomato juice for retail
• Tomato juice with added salt or celery salt
• Unfermented tomato juice in bulk containers

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is with HS code 2002.90, which covers tomato puree and paste. The distinction is based on the dry weight content; if the tomato preparation has a dry weight of 7% or more, it is classified under 2002 rather than 2009.50. Additionally, tomato-based sauces like ketchup are classified under 2103.20, as they contain additional flavoring agents and are used as condiments rather than beverages.

FAQ

What is the HS code for tomato juice?

The HS code for tomato juice with a dry weight content of less than 7% is 2009.50.

What happens if the tomato juice has more than 7% dry weight?

If the dry weight content is 7% or higher, the product is classified as tomato puree or concentrate under HS code 2002.90.