12099900
OIL SEEDS AND OLEAGINOUS FRUITS; MISCELLANEOUS GRAINS, SEEDS AND FRUIT; INDUSTRIAL OR MEDICINAL PLANTS; STRAW AND FODDER›Seeds, fruit and spores, of a kind used for sowing
Other
Subcodes (3)
Classification of other sowing seeds
CN code 120999 covers seeds, fruits, and spores for sowing not specified in other subheadings of heading 1209. This residual heading covers flower seeds, ornamental plant seeds, medicinal plant seeds, cover crop seeds, and other species not covered by more specific codes. It may include lavender, chamomile, oregano, ornamental grass, and bee-forage plant seeds.
Phytosanitary requirements
Imports are subject to phytosanitary requirements of Regulation (EU) 2016/2031. A particular risk concerns introduction of invasive alien species - Regulation (EU) No 1143/2014 prohibits import of invasive alien species on the Union list. Importers must verify the species is not listed. A phytosanitary certificate is required.
Practical import aspects
Importers should precisely describe the product with botanical name and indicate CN code 120999. Documentation includes phytosanitary and quality certificates. Preferential rates may be available. In 2026, demand for pollinator-friendly and biodiversity seeds is growing under EU environmental policies.
Flower and ornamental plant seeds in imports
Other seeds for sowing under CN 1209 99 cover seeds not separately classified, including flower seeds, ornamental plants and herbs. Imports are subject to phytosanitary controls under Regulation (EU) 2016/2031. Seeds of certain invasive species cannot be imported (Regulation (EU) 1143/2014). Documentation must precisely identify the species and variety. Main suppliers are the Netherlands (flower seeds), Japan and Chile. The EU ornamental seed market is worth over EUR 4 billion annually.
Frequently asked questions
What seeds are classified under code 120999?
It covers seeds not assigned to more specific codes in heading 1209, including flower, ornamental, medicinal, and cover crop seeds. Sowing purpose is required.
Is import of invasive species seeds permitted?
No. Regulation (EU) No 1143/2014 prohibits import of invasive alien species on the Union list. The list is regularly updated. Importers must verify species status before import.
Do medicinal plant seeds require special documentation?
Medicinal plant seeds for sowing require standard phytosanitary documentation. If the plant is subject to pharmaceutical or narcotics regulations, additional permits may apply.
Can all seeds under CN 1209 99 be imported into the EU?
No, seeds of invasive species listed under EU Regulation 1143/2014 cannot be imported. Other seeds under CN 1209 99 require a phytosanitary certificate and species identification.
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