What is the HS code for mate?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
090300
Mate
Heading 0903 — Mate
Chapter 09: Coffee, tea, mate and spices
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 090300 when importing or exporting mate, a traditional South American beverage made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. For example, if you're shipping packaged mate tea bags or loose leaf mate, this is the correct code.
This code specifically applies to mate, distinguishing it from other plant-based beverages like tea or coffee, which fall under different HS codes. If you’re dealing with tea leaves, you would use HS-6 090210 instead.
When classifying mate, consider the form of the product. Loose leaf mate, mate tea bags, and even flavored mate blends are all covered under this HS-6. However, products that are blended with other herbs or teas may require a different classification.
It's important to note that mate is often packaged in specific ways, such as in bulk bags or individual sachets. Ensure your product description matches the packaging to avoid classification issues.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
mate tea classification · HS code for mate · importing mate · exporting mate tea · packaging for mate · mate beverage regulations · mate tea bags · loose leaf mate · flavored mate products · bulk mate shipments · organic mate imports · mate tea gift sets
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Loose leaf mate in bulk packaging
- Individually packaged mate tea bags
- Flavored mate blends with herbs
- Organic mate sourced from Argentina
- Ready-to-drink mate beverages in cans
- Mate powder for culinary use
- Gift sets containing mate and traditional accessories
- Bulk shipments of mate for retail distribution
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify mate for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is flavored mate covered under HS-6 090300?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What packaging is required for mate shipments?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I export mate tea bags with this code?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Are there any regulations for importing mate?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What products fall under HS-6 090300?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How do I describe mate for customs?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
How to classify loose leaf mate for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What are the packaging requirements for mate tea
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
Differences between mate and tea HS codes
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Can I use HS-6 090300 for flavored mate blends
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Import regulations for mate tea from South America
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Best practices for exporting mate beverages
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Understanding mate product classifications
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What to include in mate product descriptions for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What products are classified under HS-6 090300?
- HS-6 090300 covers mate in various forms, including loose leaf, tea bags, and flavored blends, but not other herbal teas.
- Can I use this HS code for flavored mate?
- Yes, flavored mate blends are classified under HS-6 090300 as long as they primarily consist of mate.
- What packaging should I use for importing mate?
- Mate can be packaged in bulk bags, individual tea bags, or sachets. Ensure your packaging matches the product description.
- Are there specific regulations for importing mate?
- Yes, importing mate may require compliance with food safety regulations and labeling requirements depending on the destination country.
- How do I describe mate for customs?
- Provide a detailed description including the form (loose leaf, tea bags), origin, and any flavoring or additional ingredients.
- What is the difference between mate and tea in HS codes?
- Mate is classified under HS-6 090300, while tea falls under HS-6 090210, so it’s important to distinguish between the two.
- Can I export mate tea bags with this code?
- Yes, mate tea bags are correctly classified under HS-6 090300 for export.
- What is the best way to ship mate?
- Shipping mate in bulk or as packaged tea bags is common. Ensure compliance with any import regulations of the destination country.
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