Understanding HS Code For Honey
Honey is one of the oldest natural sweeteners in the world and a key product in global trade. Whether raw, organic, or processed, every honey variety must be classified under the Harmonized System (HS) codes to ensure correct customs duty and taxation.
Honey falls under Chapter 04 – Dairy Produce; Birds’ Eggs; Natural Honey; Edible Products Of Animal Origin. Specifically, natural honey is classified under HS Code 0409. This code covers honey produced by bees or other insects, packaged for retail or bulk trade.
Importance Of HS Code For Honey
Correct HS classification for honey is essential because:
- Customs Clearance: Prevents delays and penalties during international shipments.
- Accurate GST Application: Helps businesses charge the correct tax rate.
- Trade Agreements: Ensures exporters avail duty benefits under FTAs.
- Market Recognition: HS codes are globally standardized at the 6-digit level, making trade easier.
HS Code Classification For Honey
The classification for honey is relatively simple compared to other foods:
- 040900 – Natural honey, whether or not packaged for retail sale
Some countries use additional digits for finer distinctions (packaging, organic certification), but 0409 is the global standard heading.
GST Rates For Honey In India
GST treatment for honey in India depends on whether it’s raw/unbranded or branded/processed:
- Natural Raw Honey (unbranded) – Exempt from GST
- Branded/Packaged Natural Honey – 5% GST
- Honey With Additives/Flavors (e.g., ginger, lemon) – 12% GST
HS Codes And GST Rates For Honey Products
Here’s a detailed table covering the Honey products, HS codes, and GST rates:
🪟 GST on Glass Products (2025)
| 🧾 Product | 📦 HS Code | 📄 Category | 💰 Current GST | 🕰️ Earlier GST |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🪟 Cast/Rolled Glass | 700300 | Sheets, wired or not | 12% | 12% |
| 🧊 Drawn/Blown Glass | 700400 | Unworked sheets | 12% | 12% |
| 🪞 Float Glass | 700521 | Clear float glass | 12% | 12% |
| 🛡️ Tempered/Safety Glass | 700721 | Toughened, laminated | 12% | 12% |
| 🍾 Glass Bottles And Jars | 701090 | Containers for packing | 18% | 18% |
| 🍽️ Household Glassware | 701310 | Table/Kitchen use | 18% | 18% |
| 🧪 Laboratory Glassware | 701710 | Lab, hygienic, pharma use | 18% | 18% |
| 🎨 Decorative/Luxury Glass | 701890 | Fancy or artistic glass items | 28% | 28% |
📌 Note: GST rates for most utility and industrial glass types remain at 12–18%, while decorative luxury glass draws the highest slab of 28%.
Final Thoughts
Glass products are classified under Chapter 70 of HS codes, with subcategories ranging from construction glass to luxury decorative glassware. In India, GST varies from 12% on essential glass sheets and safety glass to 28% on decorative luxury glassware.
For businesses, accurate HS code classification is essential to avoid compliance issues, apply the correct GST rate, and ensure smooth international trade.
FAQs
The HS code for natural honey is 040900.
Raw and unbranded natural honey is generally exempt from GST in India.
Branded or packaged honey typically attracts 5% GST.
Honey with additives or flavors usually attracts 12% GST.
Yes, 0409 is the harmonized 6-digit code used globally; national extensions (8/10 digits) vary.
