Harmonized System Codes • Schedule B • Harmonized Commodity Description

HS Code 15171000: A Comprehensive Guide to Margarine Importing and Exporting

Margarine, a popular alternative to butter, has become a staple in households around the world. It is a versatile product used in baking, cooking, and spreading on bread. For those involved in the import and export of margarine, understanding the HS code 15171000 is essential. In this article, we will explore the product description, duty rates, quantity units, and special tariff preference programs associated with this HS code.

Product Description: Margarine, excluding liquid margarine

The HS code 15171000 specifically refers to margarine, excluding liquid margarine. This means that any product falling under this code must meet the criteria of being a solid or semi-solid form of margarine. Liquid margarine, on the other hand, falls under a different HS code classification.

Bound / MFN Duty Rate: 12.3 cents/kg

The bound or most-favored-nation (MFN) duty rate for margarine under HS code 15171000 is 12.3 cents per kilogram. This duty rate applies every time a country lowers a trade barrier or opens up a market. It ensures that any changes in trade regulations apply equally to all trading partners.

Quantity Unit: Kilograms (KG)

The quantity unit for margarine import and export under HS code 15171000 is kilograms (KG). This means that the weight of the product is measured in kilograms for customs and trade purposes. It is important to accurately declare the quantity of margarine being imported or exported to comply with regulations.

Special Tariff Preference Programs

Several special tariff preference programs exist for margarine imports under HS code 15171000. These programs aim to promote trade and economic development by providing preferential treatment to certain countries. Here are the details of some of these programs:

• Free: Margarine imports from least-developed beneficiary developing countries eligible for the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) under this subheading receive duty-free treatment.
• Bahrain Special Rate: Specific tariff rate for margarine imports from Bahrain.
• NAFTA for Canada: Margarine imports from Canada under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) receive duty-free treatment.
• Chile Special Rate: Specific tariff rate for margarine imports from Chile.
• Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA): Margarine imports from eligible African countries receive duty-free treatment under this program.
• Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI): Margarine imports from eligible Caribbean countries receive duty-free treatment under this program.
• Israel Special Rate: Specific tariff rate for margarine imports from Israel.
• Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA): Margarine imports from eligible Andean countries receive duty-free treatment under this program.
• Jordan Special Rate: Specific tariff rate for margarine imports from Jordan.
• Morocco Special Rate: Specific tariff rate for margarine imports from Morocco.
• NAFTA for Mexico: Margarine imports from Mexico under NAFTA receive duty-free treatment.
• Dominican Republic-Central American Special Rate (DR-CAFTA): Specific tariff rate for margarine imports from the Dominican Republic and Central American countries.
• Peru Special Rate: Specific tariff rate for margarine imports from Peru.
• Singapore Special Rate: Specific tariff rate for margarine imports from Singapore.
• Australia Special Rate: Margarine imports from Australia receive a specific tariff rate.
• Oman Special Rate: Margarine imports from Oman receive a specific tariff rate.

These special tariff preference programs provide varying levels of duty-free or reduced-duty treatment depending on the country of origin. Importers and exporters should be aware of the specific requirements and conditions associated with each program.

Understanding the HS code 15171000 and its associated details is crucial for anyone involved in the import and export of margarine. By being aware of the product description, duty rates, quantity units, and special tariff preference programs, importers and exporters can navigate the international trade landscape more effectively and efficiently.