HS Code for Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices

Imagine your spice shipment from India to the United States held up at customs for weeks due to a simple misclassification under the wrong HS code. Delays like these can cost exporters thousands in demurrage fees, lost sales, and eroded customer trust. As seasoned logistics professionals at FreightAmigo Services Limited, we have witnessed countless such scenarios where importers and exporters overlook the nuances of HS Code 0910, leading to unexpected duties, compliance issues, and disrupted supply chains. This comprehensive guide demystifies HS Code 0910 for ginger, saffron, turmeric (curcuma), thyme, bay leaves, curry, and other spices, empowering you to navigate international trade with confidence and precision.

Key Takeaways from This Guide

• Understand the exact scope and subheadings of HS Code 0910 to avoid classification errors and ensure smooth customs clearance.
• Grasp GST rates in India and indicative customs duties to optimize your tax planning and cost forecasting.
• Gain insights into global and India-specific trade trends for spices, including logistics best practices to mitigate risks.

In the competitive world of spice trading, accurate HS code classification under 0910 is not just a regulatory checkbox—it's a strategic advantage. Whether you are an Indian exporter shipping turmeric powder to Europe or an importer sourcing ginger from Vietnam, mastering the 0910 HSN code ensures compliance, minimizes costs, and accelerates market access.

Understanding HS Code 0910: Definition and Scope

HS Code 0910 falls under Chapter 9 of the Harmonized System (HS), which covers coffee, tea, maté, and spices. Specifically, it classifies ginger, saffron, turmeric (curcuma), thyme, bay leaves, curry, and other spices, excluding items like pepper (of the Piper genus), fruits of Capsicum or Pimenta, vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, mace, cardamoms, anise, badian, fennel, coriander, cumin, caraway, or juniper berries. This code primarily applies to spices that are neither crushed nor ground, though certain subheadings accommodate processed forms.

From our experience handling thousands of spice shipments annually, we emphasize that HS Code 0910 serves as the foundational reference for customs declarations worldwide. In India, it is extended to the 8-digit HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) for GST purposes. Accurate use of the 0910 HSN code prevents penalties, which can reach up to 100% of the duty evaded in severe cases.

The scope is precise: it targets unprocessed or minimally processed spices integral to global cuisines and pharmaceuticals. For instance, fresh ginger roots or dried turmeric fingers qualify directly, while mixtures fall under specific notes.

Detailed Breakdown of Key Subheadings Under 0910

Navigating the subheadings is crucial for precise classification. Here is an in-depth look:

• 091011: Ginger, neither crushed nor ground – Includes fresh (09101110), dried unbleached (09101120), and dried bleached (09101130). This is a staple for Indian exporters, forming a significant portion of global ginger trade.
• 091012: Ginger, crushed or ground – Primarily ginger powder (09101210). The ginger powder HSN code 09101210 is frequently queried due to its popularity in ready-to-use culinary applications.
• 091020: Saffron – Covers stigma (09102010) and stamen (09102020). As the saffron HSN code, it commands premium duties owing to its high value.
• 091030: Turmeric (curcuma) – Encompasses fresh (09103010), dried (09103020), and powder (09103030). Turmeric's health benefits drive surging demand.
• 091091: Mixtures of spices – Per Note 1(b), for curry powders and blends.
• 091099: Other spices – A catch-all for thyme, bay leaves, celery (09109911), fenugreek (09109912), and curry under broader categories, plus mustard (09109927).

We recommend always verifying the exact form—fresh, dried, or powdered—as it dictates subheadings and treatments. Missteps here, such as classifying ginger powder under 091011, can trigger audits.

GST Rates Under 0910 HSN Code in India

The 0910 HSN code GST rate is a critical factor for domestic and export-oriented businesses in India. As of 2026, per CBIC-GST schedules:

• Standard Rate: 5% IGST (2.5% CGST + 2.5% SGST/UTGST) applies to most items, including dried/processed ginger, saffron, dried turmeric, thyme, bay leaves, curry powder, and other spices. Effective since July 1, 2017, with no cess.
• Nil Rate (0%): Fresh ginger (09101110) and fresh turmeric (09103010) – Exemptions to support agricultural trade.

This structure incentivizes value addition through processing while keeping fresh produce affordable. For exporters, GST refunds via LUT or RFD-01 streamline cash flow. We have helped numerous clients reclaim input tax credits efficiently, reducing effective costs by up to 5%.

0910 HSN code GST rate compliance is non-negotiable; errors lead to notices under Section 73/74 of CGST Act. Always cross-reference with official CBIC notifications for updates.

Customs Duties and Import Considerations for HS 0910

India import duties under HS 0910 are indicative: basic customs duty around 30%, plus IGST (5-18% varying by subcode), and 10% Social Welfare Surcharge. Fresh forms may face restrictions or lower rates under FTAs. Exporters benefit from duty reductions via agreements with UAE, USA, and EU.

Globally, duties vary—US HTS 0910 sees moderate tariffs, while EU applies strict sanitary/phytosanitary (SPS) rules. Proper classification mitigates these.

To simplify, our Customs Clearance service offers AI-driven HS code validation, ensuring your 0910 shipments clear without hitches. Paired with our Duties & Taxes Calculator, you get instant estimates for precise budgeting.

Global and India Trade Trends for Spices Under 0910

The global trade in HS 0910 spices reached $4 billion in 2024, up 9.9% from $3.64 billion in 2023. Key players include China, India, Turkey, Vietnam, and Brazil. Germany's 2024 imports hit $59 million (13.87K tons) under 091099 alone.

India dominates: FY25 spices exports totaled $4.72 billion (17.99 lakh tons, +11% YoY), with 0910 subsets like turmeric ($330M+), curry mixes ($250M+), and ginger/saffron shining. FY26 (Apr-Jul 2025) already at $1.6 billion. Exports dipped slightly to $507M in 2023 (-1.33%), but imports rose 16.4% to $103M. Volza reports 3,796 India import shipments TTM Jul2024-Jun2025.

Logistics for spices demands ventilated containers to combat humidity and pests. High-volume sea freight from Indian ports like Mumbai or Kochi to US/EU hubs is standard. We optimize these with real-time tracking via our Track & Trace for end-to-end visibility.

Challenges include perishability (low but real), contamination risks, and volatile freight rates. Best practices: fumigation, proper packing, and insurance. Our Cargo Insurance protects against these.

Logistics Best Practices for Shipping Spices Under HS 0910

Spices trade thrives on reliable logistics. Sea freight suits high volumes economically; air for saffron's urgency. From India to USA/UAE/Europe, we leverage Sea Freight for cost-effectiveness.

Risks: Moisture (use desiccants), pests (ISPM-15 compliant pallets), temperature (20-25°C ideal). Documentation: Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, phytosanitary certificate mandatory for 0910.

We streamline with PO to POD management, reducing procurement risks. For eCommerce sellers, our Shopify App automates spice fulfillment.

In one case, an Indian turmeric exporter avoided $15K in fines via our HS validation, clearing US customs in 48 hours.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Pitfall 1: Confusing fresh vs. dried—use photos/descriptions. Pitfall 2: Overlooking mixtures (091091). Pitfall 3: Ignoring FTAs for duty savings.

Pro Tip: Pre-validate with tools like our Customs Clearance AI.

Conclusion

Mastering HS Code 0910 equips you to handle ginger, saffron, turmeric, thyme, bay leaves, curry, and other spices trade seamlessly. From GST rates to global trends and logistics strategies, this guide arms you with actionable knowledge. Partner with FreightAmigo for frictionless operations—start with our Instant Quote tool or Customs Clearance services to elevate your spice supply chain today.