15093000
ANIMAL, VEGETABLE OR MICROBIAL FATS AND OILS AND THEIR CLEAVAGE PRODUCTS; PREPARED EDIBLE FATS; ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE WAXES›Olive oil and its fractions, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified
Virgin olive oil
Tariff classification of olive oil blends
CN code 150930 covers olive oil consisting of a blend of virgin olive oil and refined olive oil. This commercial product is commonly sold as olive oil and represents the most frequently purchased olive oil category by consumers. The blend combines the flavour qualities of virgin oil with the neutrality of refined oil. Tariff classification requires distinguishing this product from virgin and extra virgin olive oil under 150910 and from refined olive oil under 150920. Correct classification is based on chemical analysis confirming the presence of both blend components. Parameters such as free acidity, peroxide value, UV absorbance, and sterol profile allow verification of the authenticity and commercial category of the olive oil.
Marketing standards and labelling
Olive oil trade in the EU is regulated by Regulation (EU) No 29/2012 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/2104 establishing marketing standards. Oil under CN 150930 must be labelled as olive oil composed of refined olive oil and virgin olive oil. The label must indicate the commercial category, olive origin, and best-before date. Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 imposes additional requirements for nutritional information and storage conditions. Adulteration of olive oil, including substitution with other vegetable oils or falsification of blend proportions, is monitored by EU control authorities. Laboratory authenticity testing may include isotope analysis, sterol profiling, and fatty acid profiling.
Import and practical aspects
Importers of olive oil should indicate CN code 150930 in customs declarations and attach documentation confirming the product's commercial category. Major olive oil exporting countries to the EU include Tunisia, Turkey, Morocco, and Albania, and imports from these countries may benefit from tariff rate quotas. The TARIC system allows verification of quota availability and applicable rates. Olive oil transport requires protection from light, heat, and contact with reactive materials. Transport containers should be made of stainless steel or food-contact approved materials. Import documentation includes certificates of analysis, certificates of origin, and logistics documents. In 2026, heightened vigilance against adulteration of olive oil imported from third countries is recommended.
Olive oil blends and fractions under CN 1509 30
CN code 1509 30 covers blends of refined olive oil with virgin olive oil and their fractions. The conventional duty is EUR 124.5 per 100 kg. These products must comply with EU marketing standards under Regulation (EU) No 29/2012, including proper labelling of the blend composition. Conformity certificates are required at import. BTI rulings help distinguish between CN 1509 20 (refined only) and CN 1509 30 (blends).
Frequently asked questions
What is olive oil under CN code 150930?
It is a blend of refined olive oil and virgin olive oil. It constitutes a distinct commercial category under EU standards. The blend proportions are not strictly regulated, but the product must meet the chemical and sensory criteria specified in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/2104.
How can olive oil authenticity be verified upon import?
Authenticity can be verified through laboratory analysis including sterol profiling, fatty acid profiling, wax content, stigmastadiene, and UV absorption. Control authorities may also order isotope analysis or NMR spectroscopy to detect admixture of cheaper vegetable oils.
Does olive oil imported from Tunisia benefit from tariff preferences?
Yes. The EU grants Tunisia a tariff rate quota for olive oil imports under the association agreement. Imports within the quota benefit from a reduced duty rate. Once the quota is exhausted, the standard rate applies. Current quota data is available in the TARIC system.
How does CN 1509 30 differ from CN 1509 20 for olive oil?
CN 1509 30 covers blends of refined and virgin olive oil, while CN 1509 20 is strictly refined olive oil. Both carry the same duty of EUR 124.5/100 kg but have different quality parameters and labelling requirements under EU marketing standards.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
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