Tea bags|HS Code

Tea bags harmonized system code

Product Overview Tea Bags, classified under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 0902, refer to the pre-packaged portions of dried, crushed tea leaves, often enclosed in a small sachet or bag. These bags are designed to infuse the flavor of tea leaves into boiling water for quick, convenient brewing. The tea leaves used vary in their processing levels, ranging from unfermented (green tea) to fully fermented (black tea), accounting for different flavor profiles and quality attributes. HS Code 0902 encompasses all types of tea, including green, black, and oolong. The subcategories within this code further distinguish between fermented and non-fermented teas, and whether they are flavored or not. Tea bags find extensive applications in the food service and retail industries due to their convenience, consistent quality, and long shelf-life. Their competitive advantage lies in their portability, ease of preparation, and the wide variety of available flavors. HS Code Classification & Trade Specifications Tea Bags fall under the full 6-digit HS Code of 0902.10 for green tea, 0902.20 for black tea, and 0902.30 for partially fermented tea, each further divided into flavored and non-flavored subcategories. The classification rationale is based on the type and level of fermentation of the tea leaves. Common trade considerations include packaging in protective, airtight materials to maintain freshness and prevent contamination, and preservation methods involving controlled temperature and moisture levels to prolong shelf life. Shipping requirements typically involve secure, dry storage conditions to prevent damage. Quality standards for tea bags are established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), specifically ISO 3720 for black tea and ISO 11287 for green tea. This ensures the tea meets defined sensory, physical, and chemical criteria, supporting its classification and trade documentation needs. This classification and specification information is crucial for customs clearance, compliance with World Trade Organization (WTO) regulations, and ensuring consistency with international trade classification systems.

Tea bags Chapter Note

1.- Mixtures of the products of headings 09.04 to 09.10 are to be classified as follows : (a) Mixtures of two or more of the products of the same heading are to be classified in that heading; (b) Mixtures of two or more of the products of different headings are to be classified in heading 09.10. The addition of other substances to the products of headings 09.04 to 09.10 (or to the mixtures referred to in paragraph (a) or (b) above) shall not affect their classification provided the resulting mixtures retain the essential character of the goods of those headings. Otherwise such mixtures are not classified in this Chapter; those constituting mixed condiments or mixed seasonings are classified in heading 21.03. 2.- This Chapter does not cover Cubeb pepper (Piper cubeba) or other products of heading 12.11.