Product classification

HS code for Whole nutmeg: 0908.11

Spices, nutmeg, neither crushed nor ground.

Classification of whole nutmeg under HS 0908.11

Whole nutmeg is classified under HS code 0908.11. Nutmeg is the dried seed of the Myristica fragrans tree, an evergreen tree native to the Moluccas. In the Harmonized System, heading 0908 is dedicated to nutmeg, mace, and cardamoms. Subheading 0908.11 specifically covers nutmeg that is "neither crushed nor ground." This classification applies to the whole seed, whether it is still contained within its hard, woody shell or has been shelled to reveal the kernel. The primary requirement for this code is the absence of mechanical grinding, crushing, or pulverizing. The drying process is the only significant processing allowed under this code. Proper classification is essential for complying with phytosanitary regulations, as whole seeds are often subject to stricter controls than ground spices to prevent the spread of pests.

Covers
  • Whole nutmeg seeds in shell
  • Whole nutmeg kernels (shelled)
  • Dried whole nutmeg
  • Whole wild nutmeg (Myristica species)
Also under 0908.11
  • Spice Islands Whole Nutmeg
  • Simply Organic Whole Nutmeg
  • Frontier Co-op Whole Nutmeg
  • Badia Whole Nutmeg

Codes often confused with 0908.11

Common mistake. Whole nutmeg is frequently confused with HS code 0908.12, which is the classification for nutmeg that has been crushed or ground into powder. Additionally, it is sometimes misclassified with 0908.21 (whole mace), which is the outer covering of the same seed. While they are related, the HS system treats them as distinct products. Importers should also avoid 1207.99 (other oil seeds), as nutmeg is specifically named in Chapter 09 as a spice.

0908.12Spices; nutmeg, crushed or ground0908.21Spices; mace, neither crushed nor ground1207.99Oil seeds and oleaginous fruits; n.e.c. in heading no. 1207, whether or not broken

Top exporters and importers of HS 090811 (the code used for whole nutmeg), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 090811 (the code used for whole nutmeg) in UN Comtrade data was Indonesia, with 68% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 35% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

Figures cover everything classified under HS 090811, not only whole nutmeg.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 Indonesia $107M
  2. 2 India $19M
  3. 3 Sri Lanka $14M

World total: $157M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 China $56M
  2. 2 United Arab Emirates* ~$18M
  3. 3 Vietnam* ~$17M

World total: $160M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

How these figures are built

109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).

Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.

Brazil NCM code for whole nutmeg

Brazil classifies whole nutmeg under NCM 0908.11.00: HS 0908.11 with 00 added.

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about whole nutmeg

What is the HS code for Whole nutmeg?

The HS code for Whole nutmeg is 090811 (Spices; nutmeg, neither crushed nor ground). The HS code for whole nutmeg is 0908.11.

How do I classify Whole nutmeg for customs?

Whole nutmeg is classified under HS code 090811 — Spices; nutmeg, neither crushed nor ground. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Does the HS code change if the nutmeg is shelled?

No, both nutmeg in the shell and shelled nutmeg kernels are classified under 0908.11, provided they are whole and not ground.

Which countries are the top exporters of whole nutmeg (HS 090811)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 090811 (the code used for whole nutmeg) in UN Comtrade data were Indonesia ($107M, 68% of world exports), India ($19M) and Sri Lanka ($14M). World exports came to about $157M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

Which countries are the top importers of whole nutmeg (HS 090811)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 090811 (the code used for whole nutmeg) in UN Comtrade data were China ($56M, 35% of world imports), the United Arab Emirates (about $18M) and Vietnam (about $17M). World imports came to about $160M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

Is the HS code for Whole nutmeg the same in all countries?

The base HS code 090811 for Whole nutmeg is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.

What is the NCM code for whole nutmeg in Brazil?

In Brazil, whole nutmeg (HS 090811) is classified under NCM 0908.11.00.