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12119000
OIL SEEDS AND OLEAGINOUS FRUITS; MISCELLANEOUS GRAINS, SEEDS AND FRUIT; INDUSTRIAL OR MEDICINAL PLANTS; STRAW AND FODDERPlants and parts of plants (including seeds and fruits), of a kind used primarily in perfumery, in pharmacy or for insecticidal, fungicidal or similar purposes, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not cut, crushed or powdered

Other

Classification of plants and plant parts

CN code 121190 covers other plants and parts of plants, including seeds and fruits, used primarily in perfumery, pharmacy, or for insecticidal, fungicidal, or similar purposes, fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried, whether or not cut, crushed, or powdered. This residual heading covers a wide range of plant materials such as lavender flowers, mint leaves, valerian root, chamomile flowers, stevia leaves, and medicinal and aromatic herbs. Major exporters include China, India, Egypt, Morocco, and South American countries.

Safety and regulatory requirements

Imports are subject to phytosanitary requirements of Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 and food safety controls if intended for consumption. Controls cover pesticides, mycotoxins, heavy metals, and pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Regulation (EU) 2023/915 sets pyrrolizidine alkaloid limits in herbal teas. Medicinal plants may be subject to pharmaceutical regulations under Directive 2001/83/EC. CITES-listed plants require import permits.

Practical import aspects

Importers should precisely describe the product with botanical name and indicate CN code 121190. Certificate of analysis should cover appropriate parameters. GSP preferences may be available. Transport requires conditions preventing quality degradation. In 2026, demand for organic herbs and natural cosmetic raw materials is growing.

Medicinal and aromatic plants in EU imports

Other plants and plant parts under CN 1211 90 cover a wide range of medicinal, aromatic and spice plants. Imports are subject to phytosanitary and food safety controls. Certain species are protected under CITES. Plants for pharmaceutical use face additional regulation by the European Medicines Agency. Controls include testing for pesticides, heavy metals and mycotoxins. Main suppliers are India, China, Egypt and Morocco. Documentation must precisely identify the botanical species using the Latin scientific name for correct classification.

Frequently asked questions

What plants are classified under code 121190?
It covers plants and parts used in perfumery, pharmacy, or insecticidal purposes not assigned to more specific codes. Includes medicinal herbs, aromatic herbs, distillation flowers, and cosmetic raw materials.
Are medicinal plants subject to pharmaceutical regulations?
Yes, if intended for medicinal purposes. Directive 2001/83/EC regulates herbal medicinal products. Traditional herbal products are subject to simplified registration under Directive 2004/24/EC.
What contaminants are controlled in imported herbs?
Pesticides, mycotoxins, heavy metals, and pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Limits are set in Regulation (EU) 2023/915. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are particularly controlled in herbal teas.
Does importing medicinal plants CN 1211 90 require a CITES permit?
Only species listed in CITES appendices require a permit. Most plants under CN 1211 90 require only a phytosanitary certificate and compliance with EU food safety standards.