Chapter 07 covers edible vegetables, roots and tubers, including fresh, chilled, frozen, dried or temporarily preserved vegetables of various kinds. This chapter is mainly divided into two major categories: the first category is fresh or chilled vegetables (headings 0701-0709), and the second category is frozen, dried or temporarily preserved vegetables (headings 0710-0714). In addition, it also includes certain specific root and tuber crops such as cassava, sweet potato, etc. (heading 0714). Goods of this chapter are important agricultural products in international trade, involving complex regulatory conditions such as tariff quotas, inspection and quarantine. Heading 0701 covers fresh or chilled potatoes, including seed and non-seed potatoes. Seed potatoes refer to potato seed tubers used for planting and propagation, usually subjected to virus-free treatment and possessing specific varietal purity and health standards. Non-seed potatoes are used for food or processing. Under this heading, based on use, seed potatoes are classified under subheading 0701.10, and others under 0701.90. International trade in seed potatoes is strictly regulated by plant quarantine regulations, and many countries require the exporting country to provide an official phytosanitary certificate. HS code 070110 is a six-digit subheading. The first two digits 07 represent Chapter 07 (Edible vegetables, roots and tubers), covering all edible vegetables. Digits 3-4, 01, represent heading 0701 (Fresh or chilled potatoes), including seed and non-seed potatoes. Digits 5-6, 10, represent subheading 0701.10 (Seed potatoes), specifically referring to seed tubers used for planting. This subheading is not further subdivided, but according to the customs regulations of various countries, further declaration of variety, specifications, etc. may be required. The core criterion for seed potatoes is that their use is for propagation, not direct consumption. Seed potatoes are classified under 070110 rather than 070190, and the key lies in their use for planting and propagation. 070190 is other fresh or chilled potatoes (non-seed), used for food or processing. The two may differ in inspection and quarantine and tariff treatment. Seed potatoes usually need to meet stricter plant health standards, such as freedom from specific pests and diseases. If potatoes are fresh or chilled but not clearly intended for seed use, they are classified under 070190. In addition, frozen potatoes (071010) or seeds of seed potatoes (1209) are also easily confused, but 070110 applies only to fresh or chilled seed tubers.
Chapter
Chapter 07 covers edible vegetables, roots and tubers, including fresh, chilled, frozen, dried or temporarily preserved vegetables of various kinds. This chapter is mainly divided into two major categories: the first category is fresh or chilled vegetables (headings 0701-0709), and the second category is frozen, dried or temporarily preserved vegetables (headings 0710-0714). In addition, it also includes certain specific root and tuber crops such as cassava, sweet potato, etc. (heading 0714). Goods of this chapter are important agricultural products in international trade, involving complex regulatory conditions such as tariff quotas, inspection and quarantine.
Heading
Heading 0701 covers fresh or chilled potatoes, including seed and non-seed potatoes. Seed potatoes refer to potato seed tubers used for planting and propagation, usually subjected to virus-free treatment and possessing specific varietal purity and health standards. Non-seed potatoes are used for food or processing. Under this heading, based on use, seed potatoes are classified under subheading 0701.10, and others under 0701.90. International trade in seed potatoes is strictly regulated by plant quarantine regulations, and many countries require the exporting country to provide an official phytosanitary certificate.
Digit Breakdown
HS code 070110 is a six-digit subheading. The first two digits 07 represent Chapter 07 (Edible vegetables, roots and tubers), covering all edible vegetables. Digits 3-4, 01, represent heading 0701 (Fresh or chilled potatoes), including seed and non-seed potatoes. Digits 5-6, 10, represent subheading 0701.10 (Seed potatoes), specifically referring to seed tubers used for planting. This subheading is not further subdivided, but according to the customs regulations of various countries, further declaration of variety, specifications, etc. may be required. The core criterion for seed potatoes is that their use is for propagation, not direct consumption.
Classification Basis
Seed potatoes are classified under 070110 rather than 070190, and the key lies in their use for planting and propagation. 070190 is other fresh or chilled potatoes (non-seed), used for food or processing. The two may differ in inspection and quarantine and tariff treatment. Seed potatoes usually need to meet stricter plant health standards, such as freedom from specific pests and diseases. If potatoes are fresh or chilled but not clearly intended for seed use, they are classified under 070190. In addition, frozen potatoes (071010) or seeds of seed potatoes (1209) are also easily confused, but 070110 applies only to fresh or chilled seed tubers.
📝 Declaration Elements
Product name: Declare the name of the goods, and it should state "seed potatoes" or "potato seed tubers", avoiding merely writing "potatoes". Use: Clearly declare as "for seed use" or "for planting", to distinguish from food or processing use. State: Declare as "fresh" or "chilled"; seed potatoes are usually in fresh or chilled state. Variety: Declare the specific variety name, such as "Atlantic", "Shepody", etc., which helps with quarantine and tariff determination. Specifications: Declare the size specifications of the seed tubers, such as diameter range, weight, etc., usually expressed in grams or millimeters. Origin: Declare the planting or production region, accurate to country, province/state, for quarantine risk assessment. Brand: If there is a brand, declare the brand name; if no brand, fill in "none". Packaging specifications: Declare the packaging method and weight or quantity per package, such as "25kg/bag", "1000 pieces/carton". Product name: Seed potatoes (seed tubers); Use: For seed use; State: Fresh; Variety: Atlantic; Specifications: diameter 30-50mm, single weight 50-80g; Origin: Shandong Province, China; Brand: None; Packaging specifications: 25kg/bag, 1000 bags in total. Remarks: Phytosanitary certificate attached. Failure to clearly declare "for seed use", resulting in classification under 070190, affecting tariffs and regulation. False declaration of variety, specifications, etc., which may trigger quarantine risks or customs doubts. Imprecise origin declaration, not detailed to the specific production area, affecting quarantine approval.
Product name
Declare the name of the goods, and it should state "seed potatoes" or "potato seed tubers", avoiding merely writing "potatoes".
⚠️ Incorrectly declared as "fresh potatoes" or "potatoes", without reflecting the seed use.
Use
Clearly declare as "for seed use" or "for planting", to distinguish from food or processing use.
⚠️ Omitting the use or incorrectly declaring as "for food".
State
Declare as "fresh" or "chilled"; seed potatoes are usually in fresh or chilled state.
⚠️ Incorrectly declared as "frozen" or "dried", leading to classification errors.
Variety
Declare the specific variety name, such as "Atlantic", "Shepody", etc., which helps with quarantine and tariff determination.
⚠️ Failure to declare the variety or use of a general name.
Specifications
Declare the size specifications of the seed tubers, such as diameter range, weight, etc., usually expressed in grams or millimeters.
⚠️ Unclear specification description, such as only writing "large" or "small".
Origin
Declare the planting or production region, accurate to country, province/state, for quarantine risk assessment.
⚠️ Only declaring the country, without specifying the specific production area.
Brand
If there is a brand, declare the brand name; if no brand, fill in "none".
⚠️ Confusing brand with manufacturer, or omitting it.
Packaging specifications
Declare the packaging method and weight or quantity per package, such as "25kg/bag", "1000 pieces/carton".
⚠️ Incomplete packaging description, such as only writing "bagged".
Failure to clearly declare "for seed use", resulting in classification under 070190, affecting tariffs and regulation.
False declaration of variety, specifications, etc., which may trigger quarantine risks or customs doubts.
Imprecise origin declaration, not detailed to the specific production area, affecting quarantine approval.
🎯 Classification Logic
The core criteria for classification are the use and state of the goods. Seed potatoes must meet the following: 1) fresh or chilled; 2) used for planting and propagation; 3) usually possessing seed tuber characteristics (such as virus-free, specific size). According to the Import and Export Tariff, subheading 0701.10 is explicitly for seed potatoes. If frozen (0710.10) or dried (0712.90), they are classified under other headings. In addition, if seed tubers have undergone further processing (such as cutting, coating), they may still be classified under 0701.10, but this must be judged according to the degree of processing. Relevant classification decisions of the General Administration of Customs emphasize that the determination of seed potatoes is based on actual use, and enterprises need to provide evidence (such as contracts, labels). 070190 Other fresh or chilled potatoes: 070190 is non-seed potatoes, used for food or processing. The difference lies in use: seed use is for propagation, non-seed use is for consumption. The use must be clearly declared, otherwise it may be classified under this code. 071010 Frozen potatoes: 071010 is frozen potatoes, regardless of whether they are for seed use. If seed potatoes are frozen, they are classified under 071010, but freezing destroys the viability of seed tubers, so in practice they will not be used as seed. 071290 Other dried vegetables and mixtures of vegetables: 071290 includes dried potatoes, but seed potatoes are usually not dried. If dried, they are classified under 071290 and no longer have seed value. 120991 Vegetable seeds: 120991 is vegetable seeds, used for sowing. Potato seed tubers are tubers, not seeds, so they are classified under 070110. However, if they are potato seeds (true seeds), they are classified under 120991. 060110 Dormant bulbs, tubers, etc.: 060110 includes dormant tubers, but mainly for ornamental or planting purposes. Although potato seed tubers are tubers, they belong to the edible vegetables chapter, so they are classified under 070110. Is it clearly declared as for seed use? Is the state fresh or chilled? Is a phytosanitary certificate provided? Are the variety and specifications fully declared? Is the origin accurate to the specific production area?
Basis
The core criteria for classification are the use and state of the goods. Seed potatoes must meet the following: 1) fresh or chilled; 2) used for planting and propagation; 3) usually possessing seed tuber characteristics (such as virus-free, specific size). According to the Import and Export Tariff, subheading 0701.10 is explicitly for seed potatoes. If frozen (0710.10) or dried (0712.90), they are classified under other headings. In addition, if seed tubers have undergone further processing (such as cutting, coating), they may still be classified under 0701.10, but this must be judged according to the degree of processing. Relevant classification decisions of the General Administration of Customs emphasize that the determination of seed potatoes is based on actual use, and enterprises need to provide evidence (such as contracts, labels).
Confused Codes：
070190 - Other fresh or chilled potatoes
070190 is non-seed potatoes, used for food or processing. The difference lies in use: seed use is for propagation, non-seed use is for consumption. The use must be clearly declared, otherwise it may be classified under this code.
071010 - Frozen potatoes
071010 is frozen potatoes, regardless of whether they are for seed use. If seed potatoes are frozen, they are classified under 071010, but freezing destroys the viability of seed tubers, so in practice they will not be used as seed.
071290 - Other dried vegetables and mixtures of vegetables
071290 includes dried potatoes, but seed potatoes are usually not dried. If dried, they are classified under 071290 and no longer have seed value.
120991 - Vegetable seeds
120991 is vegetable seeds, used for sowing. Potato seed tubers are tubers, not seeds, so they are classified under 070110. However, if they are potato seeds (true seeds), they are classified under 120991.
060110 - Dormant bulbs, tubers, etc.
060110 includes dormant tubers, but mainly for ornamental or planting purposes. Although potato seed tubers are tubers, they belong to the edible vegetables chapter, so they are classified under 070110.
Self-Check：
✓ Is it clearly declared as for seed use?
✓ Is the state fresh or chilled?
✓ Is a phytosanitary certificate provided?
✓ Are the variety and specifications fully declared?
✓ Is the origin accurate to the specific production area?
❓ FAQ
What is the difference in HS codes between seed potatoes and ordinary edible potatoes? Seed potatoes are classified under 070110, and ordinary edible potatoes under 070190. The main difference lies in use: seed use is for planting and propagation, and edible use is for consumption. When declaring, proof of use such as contracts or labels must be provided. Customs will determine classification based on actual use and declaration information. How can I inquire about the import tariff rate for seed potatoes? The import tariff rate must be determined according to the destination country and country of origin. It can be obtained through the destination country's customs official website, free trade agreement tariff inquiry system, or by consulting a customs broker. Note that rates may change, and it is recommended to rely on the latest official data. In addition, seed potatoes may enjoy tariff quotas or preferential rates. What inspection and quarantine certificates are required for exporting seed potatoes? Usually an official phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country is required, proving that the seed tubers are free from specific pests and diseases. Some countries also require virus-free certificates, varietal purity certificates, etc. The importing country may require quarantine approval in advance. It is recommended to confirm specific requirements with the local customs and quarantine authorities. Can seed potatoes be classified under 120991 vegetable seeds? No. 120991 is vegetable seeds (true seeds), while potato seed tubers are tubers and belong to vegetative propagation organs. Therefore, seed potatoes are classified under 070110. However, true potato seeds (used for breeding) may be classified under 120991. If seed potatoes are frozen, which code should they be classified under? Frozen potatoes are classified under 071010, regardless of whether they are for seed use. Because freezing destroys the viability of seed tubers, making them lose seed value, they are no longer classified under 070110. However, in actual trade, seed tubers are usually not frozen. What are the common errors when declaring seed potatoes? Common errors include: failure to declare use, incomplete variety and specifications, imprecise origin, vague packaging description, etc. These may lead to classification errors, customs clearance delays, or penalties. It is recommended to fill in strictly according to the declaration elements and attach relevant supporting documents. How can I apply for a tariff quota for seed potatoes? Some countries implement tariff quota management for seed potatoes. Importers need to apply to the competent authority for a quota and provide import contracts, proof of seed use, etc. The in-quota rate is usually lower, and the out-of-quota rate is higher. The specific application process and conditions should be consulted with the destination country's customs or agricultural department. What should be noted when selling seed potatoes via cross-border e-commerce? Cross-border e-commerce sales of seed potatoes must comply with plant quarantine regulations, and individuals are usually not allowed to mail seed tubers. Enterprises need to have import and export qualifications, handle quarantine approval, and ensure that packaging and labels meet requirements. It is recommended to understand the destination country's access conditions in advance to avoid return or destruction.
Q: What is the difference in HS codes between seed potatoes and ordinary edible potatoes?
A: Seed potatoes are classified under 070110, and ordinary edible potatoes under 070190. The main difference lies in use: seed use is for planting and propagation, and edible use is for consumption. When declaring, proof of use such as contracts or labels must be provided. Customs will determine classification based on actual use and declaration information.
Q: How can I inquire about the import tariff rate for seed potatoes?
A: The import tariff rate must be determined according to the destination country and country of origin. It can be obtained through the destination country's customs official website, free trade agreement tariff inquiry system, or by consulting a customs broker. Note that rates may change, and it is recommended to rely on the latest official data. In addition, seed potatoes may enjoy tariff quotas or preferential rates.
Q: What inspection and quarantine certificates are required for exporting seed potatoes?
A: Usually an official phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country is required, proving that the seed tubers are free from specific pests and diseases. Some countries also require virus-free certificates, varietal purity certificates, etc. The importing country may require quarantine approval in advance. It is recommended to confirm specific requirements with the local customs and quarantine authorities.
Q: Can seed potatoes be classified under 120991 vegetable seeds?
A: No. 120991 is vegetable seeds (true seeds), while potato seed tubers are tubers and belong to vegetative propagation organs. Therefore, seed potatoes are classified under 070110. However, true potato seeds (used for breeding) may be classified under 120991.
Q: If seed potatoes are frozen, which code should they be classified under?
A: Frozen potatoes are classified under 071010, regardless of whether they are for seed use. Because freezing destroys the viability of seed tubers, making them lose seed value, they are no longer classified under 070110. However, in actual trade, seed tubers are usually not frozen.
Q: What are the common errors when declaring seed potatoes?
A: Common errors include: failure to declare use, incomplete variety and specifications, imprecise origin, vague packaging description, etc. These may lead to classification errors, customs clearance delays, or penalties. It is recommended to fill in strictly according to the declaration elements and attach relevant supporting documents.
Q: How can I apply for a tariff quota for seed potatoes?
A: Some countries implement tariff quota management for seed potatoes. Importers need to apply to the competent authority for a quota and provide import contracts, proof of seed use, etc. The in-quota rate is usually lower, and the out-of-quota rate is higher. The specific application process and conditions should be consulted with the destination country's customs or agricultural department.
Q: What should be noted when selling seed potatoes via cross-border e-commerce?
A: Cross-border e-commerce sales of seed potatoes must comply with plant quarantine regulations, and individuals are usually not allowed to mail seed tubers. Enterprises need to have import and export qualifications, handle quarantine approval, and ensure that packaging and labels meet requirements. It is recommended to understand the destination country's access conditions in advance to avoid return or destruction.
⚠️ Disclaimer: HS code classification, declaration elements, tariff rates and regulatory conditions on this page are for reference only and do not constitute legal advice on customs classification. Tariff rates and regulations are subject to change; the latest announcements from the General Administration of Customs and on-site determinations shall prevail. Please consult professional customs brokers or customs authorities before import/export.