Betel nut Hs Code

Betel nut harmonized system code

Product Overview Betel nut, classified under HS Code 080280, refers to the dried seeds of the Areca catechu palm, commonly known as areca nuts. These nuts are harvested, dehusked, and often sun-dried or mechanically dried to achieve moisture content typically below 12%, ensuring optimal preservation and quality. Physically, betel nuts exhibit a hard, fibrous texture with color variations ranging from light brown to dark reddish-brown depending on processing and maturity. Within HS Code 080280, subcategories distinguish between whole, split, and ground forms of betel nuts, each tailored to specific commercial needs. The product is predominantly utilized in the food service sector as a chewing stimulant, in traditional medicine, and as a raw material in confectionery and tobacco-related industries. Its robust flavor profile and prolonged shelf-life position it as a valuable commodity in both domestic and international markets. The product’s consistent quality and adherence to processing standards provide competitive advantages in global trade, especially in regions with established cultural and commercial demand. HS Code Classification & Trade Specifications The full 6-digit HS Code for betel nut is 080280, where Chapter 08 covers “Edible fruit and nuts; peel of citrus fruit or melons,” Heading 08.02 designates “Other nuts, fresh or dried, whether or not shelled or peeled,” and Subheading 080280 specifically identifies “Areca nuts (betel nuts).” This classification is based on the botanical origin and primary processing state of the product. Trade professionals recognize this code as essential for customs clearance and tariff determination. Betel nuts are commonly packaged in ventilated jute bags or food-grade polypropylene sacks, each typically containing 25 to 50 kilograms, to facilitate aeration and prevent moisture accumulation during transit. Preservation methods include controlled drying and fumigation compliant with international phytosanitary standards to mitigate pest infestation. Shipping requirements mandate adherence to International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) guidelines and WTO SPS agreements. Quality standards often specify moisture content below 12%, absence of foreign matter, and compliance with pesticide residue limits, ensuring product integrity and regulatory compliance in importing countries.

Betel nut Chapter Note

1.- This Chapter does not cover inedible nuts or fruits. 2.- Chilled fruits and nuts are to be classified in the same headings as the corresponding fresh fruits and nuts. 3.- Dried fruit or dried nuts of this Chapter may be partially rehydrated, or treated for the following purposes : (a) For additional preservation or stabilisation (for example, by moderate heat treatment, sulphuring, the addition of sorbic acid or potassium sorbate), (b) To improve or maintain their appearance (for example, by the addition of vegetable oil or small quantities of glucose syrup), provided that they retain the character of dried fruit or dried nuts. 4.- Heading 08.12 applies to fruit and nuts which have been treated solely to ensure their provisional preservation during transport or storage prior to use (for example, by sulphur dioxide gas, in brine, in sulphur water or in other preservative solutions), provided they remain unsuitable for immediate consumption in that state.