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08

Tariff Chapter 08

Grapes, fresh or dried

What does heading 0806 of the customs tariff cover?

Heading 0806 covers grapes, fresh or dried (raisins), fresh or dried. These products are imported into the EU from many third countries and constitute a significant part of international fruit trade. Import of these products into the EU is subject to the seasonal duties and duty rates from 0% to 14.4%. A phytosanitary certificate is required. Products must meet EU standards for maximum pesticide residue levels, food safety and marketing standards. Phytosanitary controls at the EU border are mandatory. Heading 0806 is part of Chapter 8 (vegetable products and foodstuffs) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 0806 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 0806 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.

Duty rates and import requirements for heading 0806

These products are imported into the EU from many third countries and constitute a significant part of international fruit trade. Import of these products into the EU is subject to the seasonal duties and duty rates from 0% to 14.4%. A phytosanitary certificate is required. Phytosanitary controls at the EU border are mandatory. A phytosanitary certificate confirming freedom from quarantine organisms is required. Products must meet EU standards for maximum pesticide residue levels (MRLs). Check whether tariff preferences or tariff rate quotas apply for the exporting country. Labelling must comply with EU marketing standards, including country of origin and quality class. When importing goods under heading 0806 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 0806 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system).

Classification of goods under heading 0806 — key considerations

Heading 0806 covers grapes, fresh or dried (raisins). Subheadings divide into fresh table grapes and raisins/dried grapes. Key point: wine grapes may also be classified here if imported fresh. Common mistake: wine goes to heading 2204. Grape must goes to 2204 or 2009 (unfermented). Grape juice goes to 2009. Fresh grape imports are subject to EU entry prices and seasonal duties. Grape jam goes to 2007.

Frequently asked questions

What duty rates apply to grapes under heading 0806?
Duty rates for grapes under heading 0806 range from 0% to 14.4%. Fresh table grapes are subject to seasonal rates from 8% to 14.4% during the European grape season (July to November), with lower rates off-season. Raisins (dried grapes) have a separate classification with a uniform rate of 2.4%. Grapes from ACP and least-developed countries benefit from zero duty. Turkey and Chile have preferential tariff quotas. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents are required for importing grapes into the EU?
Importing fresh grapes requires a phytosanitary certificate confirming freedom from fruit flies and other pests. Consignments must be notified in the TRACES-NT system and undergo phytosanitary inspection. Table grapes must meet EU marketing standards for quality classes, minimum sugar level (Brix degrees), size and bunch appearance. Raisins require a quality certificate and documentation on the drying process and preservatives used (SO2). This applies to goods classified under heading 0806 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What should be considered when importing table grapes and raisins?
Table grapes require transport at -1°C to 0°C with humidity and SO2 control, providing a shelf life of up to 8 weeks. Major suppliers include Chile, South Africa, Peru, India and Turkey. Seasonal duty rates favour imports during December to June, when European production is minimal. Turkish raisins dominate the EU market — SO2 levels and moisture content standards must be observed. Seedless grapes are the most popular variety among EU consumers. This applies to goods classified under heading 0806 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.