Sliced Cucumber
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π₯ Sliced Cucumber (Fresh)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Strategy for Fresh Produce
π One, Product Definition & Classification: What is "Sliced Cucumber"?
Cucumbers (Cucumis sativus) are a staple fresh vegetable globally. However, the status of "Sliced" changes the regulatory landscape significantly compared to whole cucumbers.
In international trade and customs classification, the key distinction lies in the processing level: * Whole/Fresh Cucumbers: Simple washing and sorting. * Sliced/Peeled Cucumbers: Considered "prepared" or "preserved" (depending on packaging/atmosphere). If simply sliced and packed in fresh, chilled air, they often still fall under fresh vegetables. If vacuum-packed, brined, or with preservatives, they may shift to preserved vegetable categories.
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point:
- If the cucumbers are sliced, chilled, and sold fresh (no fermentation, no heavy brining, no canning) β They are typically classified under Chapter 7 (Vegetables) as prepared/preserved vegetables or simply as processed fresh vegetables.
- If they are fermented (e.g., kimchi, pickles) β Chapter 20 (Prepared Vegetables).
- If they are canned β Chapter 20.
For fresh sliced cucumbers (ready-to-eat salad style, chilled), the most common classification is under 0709.90 (Other vegetables) or specifically 0709.99 (Other vegetables, fresh or chilled). However, many customs authorities view "slicing" as a simple preparation that keeps it in 0709.
π¦ Two, HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Processing Level |
|---|---|---|---|
0709.90.60.00 |
Cucumbers, fresh or chilled (Whole) | Whole cucumbers, standard fresh export | β Raw |
0709.99.00.00 |
Other vegetables, fresh or chilled | Sliced cucumbers, shredded, ready-to-eat salad packs | β Sliced/Prepared (Fresh) |
2001.90.80.00 |
Vegetables prepared or preserved (Vinegar/Oil) | Pickled cucumbers, vinegar-brined slices | β Preserved |
2005.99.50.00 |
Other vegetables prepared/preserved (Not vinegar/oil) | Canned sliced cucumbers, refrigerated brined slices | β Preserved |
π Key Reminder:
- Fresh Sliced Cucumbers (chilled, no additives) β Likely0709.99.00.00(Other vegetables, fresh or chilled).
- Do NOT misclassify as2001or2005unless they are actually preserved (pickled/canned).
- If the product is pre-packaged for immediate consumption (salad kits), some countries require additional food safety labels, but HS Code remains0709.99.
π° Three, 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges, Policy Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 0709.99.00.00 ββ Other Vegetables, Fresh or Chilled (Sliced Cucumbers)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge | 0% (No 301 Tariff for fresh vegetables generally) |
| IEEPA Surcharge | 0% (Fresh vegetables are often exempt from IEEPA Section 1702 surcharges) |
| Total Tariff | 0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (If under $800, may qualify for Section 321) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:0709.99.00.00 β Exempt from 301/IEEPA |
π Explanation:
- Fresh agricultural products, including sliced cucumbers, are generally exempt from the aggressive tariffs imposed on manufactured goods.
- Total Tariff is 0%, making it highly competitive.
- Note: While tariffs are 0%, phytosanitary inspections are strict.
π― 2. 2001.90.80.00 ββ Vegetables Prepared or Preserved (Vinegar/Oil) (If mistakenly classified as Pickled)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% - 5% |
| USITC Surcharge | 0% (Generally exempt) |
| IEEPA Surcharge | 0% |
| Total Tariff | 0% - 5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes |
π Note:
- If the sliced cucumbers are pickled (in vinegar or oil), they fall under Chapter 20.
- Tariffs remain low, but FDA food registration is mandatory.
π οΈ Four, Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Combat Pitfalls Guide)
β 1. Required Documents Checklist (Non-negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Phytosanitary Certificate | βοΈ | Critical! Issued by the country of originβs plant protection agency. Must state "Free from pests/diseases." |
| β Fresh Product Declaration | βοΈ | Explicitly state: "Sliced, Chilled, Fresh, No Preservatives Added." |
| β FDA Prior Notice | βοΈ | Mandatory for US import. Filed before shipment arrives. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe as "Sliced Fresh Cucumbers," not "Pickles." |
| β Cold Chain Log | βοΈ | Proof of temperature control (0-4Β°C) from origin to destination. |
| β Packaging List | βοΈ | Detail inner/outer packaging material. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ βFresh Sliced, Not Pickled; Phytosanitary is Key; Cold Chain Must Be Kept!β
| Situation | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Sliced (Chilled) | 0709.99.00.00 + "Fresh/Sliced" |
Misdeclaring as 2001 (Pickled) β Triggers FDA food facility registration issues |
| Pickled/Canned | 2001.90.80.00 or 2005.99.50.00 |
Declaring as "Fresh" β Seized by USDA/APHIS |
| Vacuum-Packed Fresh | 0709.99.00.00 + "Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)" |
Declaring as "Canned" β Wrong Chapter |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Pre-cut Salad Kits | Include ingredients list. If cucumbers are <50%, may still be classified under cucumber heading, but FDA labeling is stricter. |
| Frozen Cucumbers | HS Code 0710.40.00.00 (Vegetables, frozen). Different tariff & inspection rules. |
| Organic Sliced Cucumbers | Provide Organic Certificate if claiming organic status. May qualify for premium pricing but not tariff reduction. |
| FDA Registration | Importer and Foreign Supplier must be FDA-registered. Food facility registration is required. |
π Five, Global Major Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification Requirements | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 0709.99.00.00 |
0% | FDA Prior Notice + Phytosanitary | Strict phytosanitary checks for pests |
| π¨π³ China | 0709.90.00.00 |
5% - 10% | CIQ (Inspection) | Import quota may apply |
| πͺπΊ EU | 0709.93.00 (Cucumbers) |
0% (if GSP) | GlobalGAP + Pesticide Residue | Max Residue Limits (MRLs) strictly enforced |
| π―π΅ Japan | 0709.90.00 |
0% - 8% | Japanese Phytosanitary Cert + MRLs | Very strict pesticide residue testing |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 0709.90.00 |
0% - 5% | BA (Biosecurity) Declaration | High biosecurity risks; may require fumigation |
π Conclusion:
- USA offers 0% tariff for fresh sliced cucumbers.
- EU & Japan have strict pesticide residue limits. Ensure your supplier complies with local MRLs.
- Biosecurity is the biggest hurdle, not tariffs.
π Six, Common Mistakes & Pitfalls Guide (Blood-Tea Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring "Sliced Cucumbers" as "Pickles"
π Consequence: USDA/APHIS rejects shipment as itβs not "fresh." Return or Destroy.
β Mistake 2: No Phytosanitary Certificate
π Consequence: Detained at port for 2+ weeks. High storage costs.
β Mistake 3: Temperature Failure (Cold Chain Break)
π Consequence: Bacterial growth (Listeria/Salmonella). FDA issues Warning Letter or Refusal.
β Mistake 4: Misdeclaring Frozen as Fresh
π Consequence: Wrong HS Code, wrong inspection protocol. Penalties.
β Correct Practice:
"Fresh Sliced Cucumbers, 5kg net, Chilled at 0-4Β°C, Phytosanitary Cert No. XYZ, FDA Prior Notice Filed, No Preservatives."
π― Seven, Conclusion: Professional Clearance, Fresh & Fast!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ βFresh Sliced, Not Pickled; Phytosanitary is King; Cold Chain is Life!β
πΉ βHS Code 0709.99, Tariff Zero, But FDA is Strict!β
π Tips:
If importing to the USA, ensure your supplier is on the FDA Registered Facility List.
For EU/Japan, conduct pre-shipment pesticide residue testing to avoid rejection at border.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Customs Broker specializing in Fresh Produce.
π File FDA Prior Notice 4-8 hours before arrival.
π Ensure Cold Chain Integrity with data loggers.
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Fresh Produce Deserves a Smooth Journey!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.