HTS US: 1206.00.00.XX
Description
The HTS Code 1206 encompasses sunflower seeds, whether whole or broken. These seeds are classified based on their intended use and certification status. The main categories include seeds used for oil extraction, seeds intended for sowing, and those certified as organic.
Sunflower seeds under this heading are an important agricultural commodity, widely used for producing sunflower oil, animal feed, and for planting new crops. The seeds can be processed or raw, but the classification depends largely on their use and quality certifications.
Code Hierarchy
- Section II:
- Vegetable Products (Chapters 06-14)
- Chapter 12: Oil Seeds and Oleaginous Fruits; Miscellaneous Grains, Seeds and Fruit; Industrial or Medicinal Plants; Straw and Fodder
- Heading 1206: Sunflower seeds, whether or not broken
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
1206.00.00.XX– The last digits specify the seed usage and certification.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 10-digit HTS codes under 1206.00.00 further specify the purpose and certification of the sunflower seeds as follows:
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1206.00.00.20 | For use as oil stock | Seeds specifically intended for extraction of sunflower oil; typically high oil content varieties. |
| 1206.00.00.31 | For sowing | Seeds designated for planting to produce sunflower crops; quality controlled for germination rates. |
| 1206.00.00.65 | Certified organic | Seeds grown and processed under certified organic agricultural standards. |
| 1206.00.00.70 | Other | Sunflower seeds not classified under oil stock, sowing, or certified organic categories. |
| 1206.00.00.75 | Certified organic | Additional classification for organic sunflower seeds, sometimes reflecting different certification bodies or standards. |
| 1206.00.00.80 | Other | General category for other sunflower seeds not specified elsewhere. |
| 1206.00.00.90 | Other | Residual category for miscellaneous sunflower seeds. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, note these exclusions:
- Sunflower seed oil itself
- is classified under Chapter 15 (e.g., 1512).
- Processed or roasted sunflower seeds for consumption are usually classified under food preparation chapters.
- Other oil seeds (such as soybeans, cotton seeds) fall under different headings in Chapter 12.
Notes
- Quality Control:
- Seeds for sowing must meet strict germination and purity criteria according to USDA and other regulatory bodies.
- Organic Certification: Certified organic codes require compliance with USDA Organic regulations or equivalent standards recognized in the importing country.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates vary by 10-digit subheading, with some organic or sowing seeds possibly enjoying reduced tariffs or exemptions.
- Import Documentation: Importers need to provide certificates of origin, phytosanitary certificates, and any organic certification documents when applicable.
Declaration Example
Product: Shipment of certified organic sunflower seeds for oil stock.US HTS Code:
1206.00.00.65(Certified organic sunflower seeds)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (May vary by trade agreements and certification)
Additional Requirements: Organic certification documents and phytosanitary inspection certificate required.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 1207:
- Other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, such as safflower or cotton seeds.
- HTS 1508: Sunflower-seed oil and its fractions.
- HTS 0713: Dried leguminous vegetables, shelled, which might be related in agricultural trade.
