Not sure about the classification?
12
Tariff Chapter 12
Other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, whether or not broken
What does heading 1207 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 1207 covers other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits. These products are important in international agricultural trade, used in the food, feed, oil and pharmaceutical industries. Import of these products into the EU is subject to duty rates of 0%. A phytosanitary certificate is required. Products must meet EU food safety standards for mycotoxins, pesticides and GMOs. Genetically modified oilseeds (e.g. Heading 1207 is part of Chapter 12 (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 1207 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 1207 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 1207
These products are important in international agricultural trade, used in the food, feed, oil and pharmaceutical industries. Import of these products into the EU is subject to duty rates of 0%. A phytosanitary certificate is required. soy) require EU approval. A phytosanitary certificate confirming freedom from quarantine organisms is required. GMO seeds and products require EU approval of the transformation event. Products must meet EU standards for mycotoxins, pesticides and contaminants. Check whether the exporting country benefits from tariff preferences. When importing goods under heading 1207 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 1207 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). Goods under heading 1207 are subject to phytosanitary or food safety controls. Required documentation includes: phytosanitary certificates, health certificates, pesticide residue test results. In addition to customs duty, imports are subject to VAT at the rate applicable in the country of destination. The VAT taxable amount at import is the customs value plus duty and any countervailing or anti-dumping duties. The importer must file an electronic customs declaration in the national import system.
Classification of goods under heading 1207 - key considerations
Heading 1207 covers other oilseeds (sesame, mustard, poppy, chia). Classification under this heading requires precise determination of product type, processing level and intended use. CN subheadings divide products in detail by physical and chemical characteristics. Common classification errors involve confusion with headings 1515 or 1208. Key factors: composition, raw material origin and processing method determine correct subheading assignment.
Frequently asked questions
What are the duty rates for other oil seeds (heading 1207)?
EU import duty on oil seeds and oleaginous fruits under heading 1207 is 0% (erga omnes). This applies to linseed, rapeseed, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, mustard seeds, safflower seeds, hemp seeds, palm nuts and castor oil seeds, among others. The zero duty rate facilitates access to raw materials for the European oil, feed and food industries. This rate is uniform regardless of the country of origin. 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 oil seeds (heading 1207)?
Imports require a phytosanitary certificate, customs declaration, and commercial documents. For genetically modified seeds (e.g., GM rapeseed), EFSA authorization and labelling under Regulation (EC) 1829/2003 is required. Hemp seeds must meet the THC content requirement below 0.3% and require a variety certificate. The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) may apply to certain oil seeds, including oil palm products. 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 importers consider when bringing oil seeds into the EU?
Heading 1207 covers a broad range of seeds - from sesame to hemp and castor oil seeds. Correct classification at the 8-digit CN code level is essential as it determines non-tariff requirements. Hemp seeds face specific THC content controls. Castor oil seeds require attention due to ricin content. Maritime transport requires humidity monitoring. Check whether products fall under EUDR deforestation regulations, particularly for palm-derived products. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, whether or not broken" and see the full import cost.Excise Duty CalculatorCheck if your goods are subject to excise duty and calculate the tax amount.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, whether or not broken" with all costs included.
Related glossary terms