HS Code 1803

Cocoa Paste

HS code 1803 covers cocoa paste, also known as cocoa liquor or mass, whether or not it has been defatted, used for chocolate production.

4-digit Section IVFCL

HS Code 1803 — Cocoa Paste

Also known as cocoa liquor or mass, this is produced by grinding cocoa beans. It can be traded in its natural state or with fat partially removed (defatted).

What's included

  • Cocoa liquor
  • Cocoa mass
  • Defatted cocoa paste
  • Unsweetened chocolate liquor

What's excluded

  • Cocoa powder → use 1805 (Powder is the result of fully pressing the paste and grinding the cake.)

Common examples

  • Natural cocoa liquor blocks
  • Partially defatted cocoa mass
  • Unsweetened chocolate base

Frequently asked questions

Does cocoa paste contain alcohol?

No, despite the name 'cocoa liquor', it is a non-alcoholic paste of ground beans.

Trade & shipping notes

  • Typical duty range: 0% - 9.6%
  • Documentation: Fat content must be declared for accurate duty calculation.
  • Typical shipping mode: FCL
  • Top exporters: Cote d'Ivoire, Netherlands, Ghana
  • Top importers: Germany, France, United States

Key takeaway

The intermediate step between beans and chocolate/powder.

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