TradeTools

HS-6 · Subheading

180500

Cocoa; powder, not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter

Heading 1805Cocoa; powder, not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter

Chapter 18: Cocoa and cocoa preparations

Plain-language overview

Use HS-6 180500 when importing or exporting cocoa powder that does not contain added sugar or sweetening agents. For example, shipments of pure cocoa powder intended for baking or chocolate production fall under this classification.

This code specifically covers cocoa powder that is unsweetened, distinguishing it from HS-6 1806XX, which includes cocoa powder with added sugar. If your product contains any sweetening matter, you’ll need to look at a different classification.

Cocoa powder classified under 180500 is typically used in recipes for chocolate desserts, beverages, or as a flavoring agent in various food products. It is often sold in bulk or packaged in retail containers.

When considering this HS code, ensure your product is free from any sweeteners. If you're unsure, check the ingredient list or consult with a customs broker for guidance.

Keywords & topics

Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.

cocoa powder classification · HS code 180500 · unsweetened cocoa powder · cocoa for baking · bulk cocoa shipments · cocoa powder ingredients · import cocoa powder · export cocoa products · cocoa powder packaging · sugar-free cocoa · cocoa for chocolate production · cocoa powder uses · cocoa food products · cocoa powder regulations · cocoa trade compliance · cocoa ingredient sourcing

Examples

Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.

  • Bulk shipments of unsweetened cocoa powder for industrial baking
  • Retail packages of cocoa powder labeled as '100% cocoa, no sugar added'
  • Cocoa powder used in the production of dark chocolate without added sugars
  • Ingredients for health food products that require unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Cocoa powder sold in pouches for home baking, clearly marked as sugar-free
  • Cocoa powder used in protein shakes or supplements without sweeteners
  • Samples of cocoa powder for food testing that contain no additives
  • Cocoa powder imported for use in gourmet cooking classes

Common questions

Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.

What is HS code 180500 used for?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to classify unsweetened cocoa powder?

Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.

Is cocoa powder with sugar under HS 180500?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What are the requirements for importing cocoa powder?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

Can I export cocoa powder with added sweeteners?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What products fall under HS code 180500?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How do I label cocoa powder for customs?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What are the differences between cocoa HS codes?

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 cocoa powder without sugar

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

requirements for importing unsweetened cocoa powder

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

difference between cocoa powder HS codes

Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.

examples of products under HS code 180500

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

how to label cocoa powder for export

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

cocoa powder classification for customs

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

what to know about cocoa powder regulations

Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.

guidelines for importing cocoa products

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 types of cocoa powder does HS-6 180500 cover?
HS-6 180500 covers cocoa powder that does not contain any added sugar or sweetening agents, typically used in baking and food production.
Can I use HS-6 180500 for cocoa powder with added sugar?
No, if your cocoa powder contains added sugar, it should be classified under a different HS code, such as **HS-6 1806XX**.
What should I check before classifying my cocoa powder?
Always check the ingredient list to ensure there are no added sweeteners. If in doubt, consult with a customs broker.
How is cocoa powder typically packaged for export?
Cocoa powder is often packaged in bulk bags, retail pouches, or containers, clearly labeled as unsweetened if it falls under HS-6 180500.
Are there specific regulations for importing cocoa powder?
Yes, regulations may vary by country, so it’s important to check local import requirements and ensure compliance with food safety standards.
What are common uses for cocoa powder classified under HS-6 180500?
Common uses include baking, making chocolate products, and as an ingredient in health foods and beverages.
Can I get a ruling on my cocoa powder classification?
Yes, you can request a binding ruling from customs authorities if you need clarification on how to classify your cocoa powder.
What is the difference between cocoa powder and cocoa solids?
Cocoa powder is the dry powder made from cocoa solids after fat (cocoa butter) is removed, while cocoa solids refer to the non-fat component of cocoa.

Continue classification

Parent context

Nearby siblings

Next best action

Pick one of these actions to move from reading to a defensible classification decision.

Browse this subheading in the lookup

← HS-4 1805