What is the HS Code?
HS stands for "Harmonized System," and it's essentially a global product identification number or import code. These codes help customs authorities worldwide in categorizing products and determining import/export duties.
Note: Group 22 in the Harmonized System (HS) includes a diverse range of products, not only alcoholic beverages but also other items such as vinegar. This group is a broad category encompassing various commodities, emphasizing the need for precise HS codes to facilitate international trade and customs clearance.
HS Code for Japanese Sake: 2206.00
The import code for Japanese sake, known as "Seishu" (清酒) in Japanese, is HS code 2206.00. This code falls under the broader category of "Other fermented liquors" and includes various other beverages like apple wine, pear wine, mead, and of course, sake. The HS code 2206.00 is further divided into subcategories:
- 2206.00-200: This subcode specifically denotes Japanese sake (Seishu).
- 2206.00-900: Covers other fermented liquors that don't fit into the previous categories.
HS Codes for Other Japanese Alcohols
Japanese alcohol is renowned for its diversity, and each type has its unique HS code:
Japanese Beer: HS Code 2203.00
Japanese beer has its distinct HS code, indicating its classification as a brewed malt beverage. This code helps streamline the import/export process for beer.
Japanese Shochu: HS Code 2208.90
Shochu is a distilled spirit, typically made from grains, sweet potatoes, or barley. Its HS code helps customs authorities distinguish it from other alcoholic beverages.
Japanese Whiskey: HS Code 2208.30
Japanese whiskey, gaining popularity worldwide, is classified under this HS code, signifying its status as a distilled spirit.
Japanese Gin: HS Code 2208.50
Gin, a flavored alcoholic beverage with juniper berries as a key ingredient, has its unique HS code for easy identification at customs.
HS Codes for Sake Imports by Country:
It's crucial to understand that HS codes can vary between exporting and importing countries. Here are examples of HS codes for importing Japanese sake into major markets:
United States:
- HS Code for Sake Exported from Japan: 2206.00-200
- HS Code for Sake Imported into the United States: 2206.00-4500
Hong Kong:
- HS Code for Sake Exported from Japan: 2206.00-200
- HS Code for Sake Imported into Hong Kong: 2206.00-90
Singapore:
- HS Code for Sake Exported from Japan: 2206.00-200
- HS Code for Sake Imported into Singapore: 2206.00-20
China:
- HS Code for Sake Exported from Japan: 2206.00-200
- HS Code for Sake Imported into China: China has its unique HS code system for imports, which may not correspond directly to the Japanese HS code but serves a similar purpose.
European Union (EU) Countries:
- HS Code for Sake Exported from Japan: 2206.00-200
- HS Code for Sake Imported into the EU: 2206 0039 (Please note that EU countries use a slightly different system, called the EU Customs Tariff (TARIC))
Conclusion
Understanding HS codes is crucial for anyone involved in international trade, especially when dealing with products like Japanese alcohols, including sake, shochu, beer, whiskey, and gin. These codes simplify customs procedures, ensuring that the right import/export duties are applied, making the global trade of these delightful beverages smoother and more efficient. Importers and exporters should stay informed about the specific HS codes relevant to their products and respective importing countries to navigate the world of international trade successfully.
