HS Code 0908 — Nutmeg, Mace and Cardamoms

This category includes major aromatic spices derived from the nutmeg tree and cardamom plants. It covers these spices in whole, crushed, or ground forms, primarily used for culinary seasoning and essential oil extraction.

What's included

Whole nutmeg
Shelled nutmeg
Ground nutmeg
Mace (nutmeg aril)
Green cardamom pods
Black cardamom
Ground cardamom

What's excluded

Wild nutmeg → use 0802 (Classification depends on botanical origin and use as a nut versus spice.)
Nutmeg oil → use 3301 (Essential oils are classified under Chapter 33 regardless of source plant.)

Common examples

Whole Indonesian Nutmeg
Ground Mace Powder
Guatemalan Green Cardamom Pods
Grinded Cardamom Seed
Indian Black Cardamom

Frequently asked questions

Does this code cover both whole and ground spices?

Yes, HS code 0908 applies to these spices whether they are in their natural whole state, crushed, or finely powdered.

Are there different codes for green and black cardamom?

Both varieties fall under 0908, but they are often differentiated at the 6-digit or 8-digit subheading level.

Trade & shipping notes

Typical duty range: 0% - 15%
Documentation: Requires a Phytosanitary Certificate to ensure the absence of pests like the nutmeg weevil.
Typical shipping mode: LCL
Top exporters: Guatemala, Indonesia, India, Grenada
Top importers: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, United States, Germany

Key takeaway

Covers nutmeg, mace, and cardamom in all physical forms; requires strict phytosanitary compliance for import.

Nutmeg, Mace and Cardamoms