Beer|HS Code

Beer harmonized system code

Product Overview Beer under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 2203 is a beverage obtained from the fermentation of malted barley using yeast and water, typically flavored with hops. Essential attributes include alcohol content ranging from 0.5% to 40%, varying color spectrum from pale to dark, and diversity in taste and aroma based on the brewing process. Subcategories within HS Code 2203 include Beer made from malt (2203.00.10), Non-alcoholic beer (2203.00.20), and other beer (2203.00.90). Commercially, beer is consumed globally, with primary uses in the food service industry, retail sector, and at social & cultural events. With its broad range of styles and flavors, beer holds a distinct market position, offering a diverse product palette catering to various consumer preferences. HS Code Classification & Trade Specifications The full 6-digit code for Beer is 2203.00, falling under Chapter 22 (Beverages, Spirits, and Vinegar), Heading 2203 (Beer made from malt). The classification rationale lies in the product's nature and production process, which involves the fermentation of malted barley. Common packaging for international trade includes cans, bottles, and kegs, each designed to maintain the product's quality and freshness during transit. Shipping requirements often necessitate temperature-controlled environments to preserve the beer's integrity. Quality standards for beer, recognized internationally, include specific gravity, alcohol content, bitterness units, and color, among others. These attributes are measurable and must adhere to established industry and regulatory standards, including those set by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and international customs regulations. The description and classification align with international trade classification systems, ensuring ease of identification and compliance by trade professionals.

Beer Chapter Note

1.- This Chapter does not cover : (a) Products of this Chapter (other than those of heading 22.09) prepared for culinary purposes and thereby rendered unsuitable for consumption as beverages (generally heading 21.03); (b) Sea water (heading 25.01); (c) Distilled or conductivity water or water of similar purity (heading 28.53); (d) Acetic acid of a concentration exceeding 10 % by weight of acetic acid (heading 29.15); (e) Medicaments of heading 30.03 or 30.04; or (f) Perfumery or toilet preparations (Chapter 33). 2.- For the purposes of this Chapter and of Chapters 20 and 21, the “alcoholic strength by volume” shall be determined at a temperature of 20 C. 3.- For the purposes of heading 22.02, the term “non-alcoholic beverages” means beverages of an alcoholic strength by volume not exceeding 0.5 % vol. Alcoholic beverages are classified in headings 22.03 to 22.06 or heading 22.08 as appropriate.