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Vanillin Customs Clearance: HS Code 29124100, Applications, Permits, and Required Documents

Vanillin, as one of the most widely used chemical compounds in the world, has extensive applications across various industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. This substance, which is naturally extracted from the vanilla plant and is also produced industrially, is used as a fragrance and flavoring agent due to its sweet and distinctive aroma. In the process of importing and exporting this substance, an accurate understanding of customs regulations and the technical points related to clearance is highly important.
Explanation of the steps for clearing this product

For inquiries on the time and cost of vanillin clearance, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.

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1) Applications of Vanillin in Various Industries

Due to its distinctive aromatic and flavor properties, vanillin holds a special place in various industries and is used in many everyday consumer products:
Food Industry
Vanillin is one of the most important artificial flavorings used in the production of various food products such as confectionery, chocolate, cakes, non-alcoholic beverages, ice cream, and desserts. It helps improve the taste of food products and is recognized as one of the key ingredients in the chocolate and dairy industries.
Pharmaceutical Industry
In the production of medicines and oral supplements, vanillin is used as a taste enhancer. Many medicines that have a bitter or unpleasant taste become more palatable with vanillin. In addition, it is used in the production of syrups and chewable tablets due to its fragrant nature.
Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry
Thanks to its pleasant scent, vanillin is used in the production of many cosmetic and personal care products such as creams, lotions, shampoos, and perfumes. It appears in many fragrances as a top or middle note and plays a key role in delivering diverse scents to cosmetic and personal care products.

2) Vanillin Tariff Code (HS Code)

For importing vanillin into Iran, knowing the tariff code (HS Code) is very important. The HS Code for vanillin is 29124100. This code is specifically used for synthetic vanillin, and importers must use it across all customs and clearance-related documents. Using this code enables customs to accurately identify the goods and carry out the necessary checks. Importers should also pay attention to applicable taxes and duties, which vary based on the country of origin and import volume.
Product Description HS Code Note
Vanillin (synthetic) 2912.41.00 Declare with quality and origin documentation

Before final declaration, always match the tariff line with the “Export and Import Regulations Book” and an HS specialist.

3) Technical Notes and Required Documentation for Vanillin Clearance

Obtaining Health Permits
Because vanillin is used as an edible or consumable substance in the pharmaceutical and food industries, it requires health permits from the Food and Drug Organization. These permits ensure that the imported material complies with the required health and safety standards and is suitable for human consumption.
Compliance with National and International Standards
All products imported into Iran, including vanillin, must comply with national and international standards. Importers are obliged to align their products with relevant standards to avoid customs issues and quality controls. In some cases, samples of the product are sent to customs laboratories for quality testing.
Documents Required for Clearance
Essential documents for vanillin clearance include proforma invoice, commercial invoice, certificate of origin, bill of lading, and health permits. These documents must be prepared and presented completely and accurately to prevent any delays in the clearance process.
Quality Control
Customs may sample the imported shipment for quality control and send it to specialized laboratories. These tests ensure that the imported vanillin meets the required standards and is suitable for entry into the consumer market.

4) Conditions for Importing and Exporting Vanillin to/from Iran

Vanillin is a key chemical substance that plays a very important role in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Due to its unique flavor and aroma characteristics, it is favored by many manufacturers around the world. In Iran, the import of vanillin is of special importance due to the high demand from industries.

5) Vanillin Imports to and Exports from Iran

Vanillin is imported into Iran due to the urgent needs of various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The supplying countries for Iran are mainly major global producers. This substance is imported into Iran in both natural and synthetic forms, and its import volume is consistently significant due to high demand.
Main Countries Exporting Vanillin to Iran
  • China: The largest producer and exporter of synthetic vanillin in the world, accounting for a major share of Iran’s imports. Owing to low production costs and high production capacity, China exports the most vanillin to Iran and other regions worldwide.
  • India: Another key exporter of vanillin to Iran, producing and exporting both natural and synthetic vanillin. Due to its capability in producing natural vanillin, India holds an important position in the global market.
  • Germany and the United States: These countries are known as producers and exporters of high-quality vanillin and export notable amounts to Iran, though the volume is less than that of China and India.
Vanillin Exports from Iran
Vanillin exports from Iran are primarily to neighboring countries. Iraq, Afghanistan, and some Asian countries are among the main destinations for Iranian vanillin exports. Although the export volume is lower compared to imports, demand in the region is growing, which can create more export opportunities in the future.

6) Vanillin Import and Export Volumes to/from Iran

The volume of vanillin imports to Iran has continuously grown in recent years due to increasing domestic production in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Estimates indicate that Iran imports about 10 to 15 thousand tons of vanillin annually from various countries, with the majority supplied by China and India. This high volume underscores the importance of this substance for Iranian industries.
The export volume of vanillin from Iran is more limited compared to imports, but it has seen slight growth in recent years. Iran’s vanillin exports to neighboring countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan have been accompanied by increasing demand in these regions.

7) Global Vanillin Trade Turnover

Vanillin is a vital chemical with a significant annual financial turnover in the global market. The global trade volume of vanillin is estimated at around 2.5 to 3 billion USD. This amount is continually increasing due to the growth of the food and pharmaceutical industries, especially in developing countries. The main producers and exporters of vanillin are primarily located in Asia and North America, with high demand especially in the European Union, the United States, Japan, and South Korea.

8) Major Global Exporters and Importers of Vanillin

Major Global Exporters of Vanillin

  • China: With the largest synthetic vanillin producers, China holds the biggest share of global vanillin exports.
  • India: A key exporter of both natural and synthetic vanillin, holding an important position in the global market.
  • United States: American producers export to major markets such as the European Union and Asia due to the high quality of their products.
  • Germany: Another high-quality exporter of vanillin, especially to EU countries.

Major Global Importers of Vanillin

  • European Union: EU member states, especially Germany and France, are among the largest importers of vanillin due to extensive use in food and pharmaceutical industries.
  • United States: Given the high demand in food and pharmaceutical industries, the U.S. is one of the largest importers of vanillin.
  • Japan and South Korea: These two Asian countries also have high demand due to the development of their related food and pharmaceutical industries.
  • Middle Eastern Countries: Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia are among the largest importers of vanillin in the Middle East due to the rapid growth of food and pharmaceutical industries.

9) The Best and Simplest Method to Clear Vanillin

To speed up and simplify the customs clearance of vanillin, leveraging the services of a specialized customs broker is essential. The best method for clearing this important chemical includes the following:
  • Complete Documentation Readiness: A key factor for fast clearance is preparing full documentation such as proforma invoice, commercial invoice, certificate of origin, and bill of lading. Also, obtaining health permits from the Food and Drug Organization and complying with national standards is essential.
  • Selecting a Specialized Customs Broker: Using an experienced broker in clearing chemicals like vanillin can expedite the clearance process. These brokers, fully aware of customs regulations and required standards, correctly prepare documents and prevent any delays or issues.
  • Speeding Up the Permit Process: An important broker service is expediting health permits and other necessary documents. By using these services, importers can avoid potential delays and clear the goods in the shortest possible time.
  • Precise Tracking of the Clearance Process: Customs brokers, through continuous follow-ups and close communication with customs and other related entities, can carry out vanillin clearance more quickly and accurately.

10) Required Documents for Vanillin Customs Clearance

Clearing vanillin from customs—as a widely used chemical in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries—requires preparing and presenting a set of valid documents. These documents are essential not only to confirm compliance with customs regulations but also to ensure health and safety standards are met.

Proforma Invoice:
The proforma invoice acts as the first document in the purchase process and includes precise information about the seller, buyer, product specifications and price, and payment terms. It helps both parties agree on details and obtain necessary permits for order registration.
Commercial Invoice:
After the order is confirmed, the commercial invoice is issued containing complete details of the goods, final price, and sales terms. This document must include the HS Code and serves as the main basis for calculating customs duties and taxes.
Certificate of Origin:
This document confirms the manufacturing source of the vanillin and indicates the producing country. It is a key document for determining customs tariffs and adhering to international trade agreements.
Bill of Lading:
The bill of lading serves as proof of transport. It includes information such as the carrier’s name, cargo details, and shipping terms, and is usually issued by the shipping company. It plays an important role in tracking the shipment and proving ownership.
Health Certificates:
Since vanillin is identified as an edible and chemical substance, it requires health permits from the Food and Drug Organization. These permits confirm that the goods comply with health and safety standards and are suitable for human consumption.
Laboratory Test Reports:
In some cases, customs may request quality tests on the vanillin. The results help confirm the quality and safety of the goods and must be carefully prepared and presented.
Customs Declaration:
The declaration includes precise information related to releasing the goods from customs and must be completed by the importer or their legal representative and submitted to customs. Information such as HS Code, product type, and its value is recorded in this document.
Company Registration Document:
Importers must present a document proving their company’s legal registration in Iran. This document indicates the importer’s legal credibility and capacity to conduct international trade.
Personal Identification Documents:
Identification documents include the national ID card or birth certificate of the importer’s legal representative or the company’s CEO. These documents serve as the legal identity of the natural or legal person.

Key Points and Practical Recommendations

  • Include HS Code 2912.41.00 in all documents and match with an HS specialist before final declaration.
  • Obtain health permits from the Food and Drug Organization and standard certificates in advance to avoid delays.
  • Be prepared for sampling and laboratory tests for food/pharmaceutical shipments.
  • Close cooperation with a customs broker specialized in chemicals reduces risk and clearance time.
Topic Sensitivity Control Note Document/Permit
Classification & Declaration High Accurate entry of 29124100 Regulations Book, Declaration
Health & Safety High Possible sampling Food & Drug permit, Lab report
Commercial Documentation Medium Accurate completion of invoices PI, CI, B/L, CO
Explanation of the steps for clearing this product

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS Code of vanillin for customs declaration?

The tariff code for vanillin is 29124100 and it must be included in all customs documents. It is recommended to match with an HS specialist and the Regulations Book before the final declaration.

What permits are required for vanillin clearance?

Health permits from the Food and Drug Organization, compliance with national/international standards, and complete commercial documents (PI, CI, CO, B/L) are the main requirements.

What are Iran’s vanillin import and export volumes?

It is estimated that about 10 to 15 thousand tons are imported annually. Exports are lower than imports but show a growing trend toward regional markets such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

What is the best way to expedite vanillin clearance?

Complete documentation, using a customs broker specialized in chemicals, expediting health permits, and continuous follow-ups with customs.

    Special Customs Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage

    As one of the top customs brokerages in Iran, Saba Brokerage offers comprehensive and specialized services to facilitate the import and clearance of vanillin. These services are designed to help importers navigate complex customs procedures with ease.

    Pre-import Expert Consultation: By providing technical and specialized advice, this brokerage plans and manages all stages of vanillin clearance in the best possible manner. Consultants use their knowledge to help importers understand applicable laws and regulations and make better decisions.
    Obtaining Necessary Permits: With extensive experience in obtaining required health permits and standards, it performs vanillin clearance faster and without issues. These services include preparing and following up on documents related to health permits from the Food and Drug Organization and other relevant entities.
    Cost Reduction and Process Optimization: By careful review and offering economic solutions, it helps importers minimize customs and clearance costs. By identifying weak points in the process, this brokerage can contribute to saving both cost and time.
    Continuous Follow-up and Client Updates: By providing regular reports, it keeps clients informed of all clearance steps and helps resolve any potential issues. This close communication ensures peace of mind regarding the progress and success of the clearance process.
    By using these services, vanillin importers can leverage the experience, expertise, and commitment of this team to improve the clearance process and reduce costs.

    Contact our experts for more information.