Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
Free
This item enters the United States duty-free. No import duty is charged regardless of origin country.
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
Free
Column 2 rates are substantially higher than Column 1 rates and are rarely applied in modern international trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
What HTS 0910.20.00.00 Covers
This code covers saffron, the dried stigmas of the crocus flower used as a spice and coloring agent. It includes whole saffron threads and ground or powdered saffron. Major origins include Iran, Spain, Afghanistan, and India.
Notes for Importers
Saffron is one of the highest-value spices by weight, which makes it a frequent target of adulteration; FDA scrutiny of purity and labeling is common, and blends of saffron with other materials may classify as spice mixtures under 0910.91 rather than pure saffron. Safflower, sometimes sold misleadingly as saffron substitute, is a different product entirely and does not belong here. Shipments from Iran are subject to US sanctions restrictions, so verify origin and licensing carefully.
Product Category
Vegetable Products
This chapter includes cereals, flour, malt, edible vegetables, edible fruit, coffee, tea, spices, and related plant-based food products.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 0910.20.00.00 |
| Description | Saffron |
| Chapter | 9 - Vegetable Products |
| General Duty Rate | Free |
| Rate Type | Free |
| Special Rates | |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 0910.20 cover ground saffron as well as whole threads?
Yes. The subheading covers saffron whether whole, crushed, or ground. What matters is that the product is genuine saffron and not a blend or substitute.
How is a saffron seasoning blend classified?
Mixtures of saffron with other spices or with fillers such as rice flour are typically classified as spice mixtures under subheading 0910.91, not as pure saffron. Prepared seasonings with non-spice ingredients can even fall in Chapter 21.
Is safflower classified as saffron?
No. Safflower petals, sometimes marketed as poor man's saffron, are a completely different botanical product and are classified elsewhere. Only true saffron from the Crocus sativus flower belongs under 0910.20.
What is the HTS code 0910.20.00.00 used for?
HTS code 0910.20.00.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Saffron. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 0910.20.00.00?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 0910.20.00.00?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Vegetable Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 0910.20.00.00?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 0910.20.00.00 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.