HS Code 1209
Sowing Seeds, Fruits and Spores
HS code 1209 covers seeds, fruits, and spores used for sowing, including vegetable and flower seeds used by commercial growers and home gardeners globally.
4-digit Section IIAir
HS Code 1209 — Sowing Seeds, Fruits and Spores
This code covers seeds specifically intended for planting and cultivation rather than for immediate food or industrial use. It includes seeds for vegetables, flowers, grasses, and forest trees required to grow new crops or plants.
What's included
- Vegetable seeds
- Flower seeds
- Grasses and forage seeds
- Forest tree seeds
- Sugar beet seed
What's excluded
- Oil seeds for industrial extraction → use
1201-1207(These are classified by the specific oil-bearing plant type.) - Seeds used as spices → use
0904-0910(Seeds used primarily for seasoning fall under spices.)
Common examples
- F1 Hybrid tomato seeds
- Kentucky Bluegrass seed for lawns
- Petunia flower seed packets
- Sugar beet seeds for agriculture
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a phytosanitary certificate for these seeds?
Yes, nearly all seeds for sowing require a phytosanitary certificate to prove they are free from pests and diseases.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 0% - 5%
- Documentation: Must clearly state 'For Sowing' on the commercial invoice to avoid misclassification as food grade.
- Typical shipping mode: Air
- Top exporters: Netherlands, United States, France
- Top importers: United States, Germany, China
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
Sowing seeds require strict phytosanitary compliance and are often high-value, low-volume air freight.
Related HS codes
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