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Sugar & Sugar Cube Customs Clearance in Iran (HS Code + Documents & Permits)

Sugar and sugar cube customs clearance is one of the critical and sensitive processes in the supply chain of these two strategic goods, playing a key role in ensuring market access domestically and internationally. Sugar and sugar cube are essential products in many countries’ food baskets and, due to their widespread use in various sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and even cosmetics & personal care there is steady global demand for them.

For estimating the time and cost of sugar & sugar cube clearance, contact Saba Tarkhis experts.

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1) Sugar & Sugar Cube Categories

Customs Tariff (HS Code) for Sugar & Sugar Cube
In general, HS codes for importing and exporting sugar and sugar cube are categorized as follows:
Sugar (solid, pure): 1701.99
Raw sugar (unrefined): 1701.12
Refined sugar: 1701.99
Liquid sugars: 1702.90
Depending on the exact product type or the origin/destination country, these codes may slightly vary. Therefore, to ensure choosing the correct tariff code for customs clearance, always verify the specific sugar type and confirm the correct code per the destination customs’ notices.

2) Key Points for Sugar & Sugar Cube Clearance

Imports of sugar and sugar cube into Iran are conducted under strict regulations because these products directly affect food prices and the domestic market. Given their vital role in meeting national dietary needs, importing these goods is only possible with specific permits issued by authorities such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade (IMT), the National Standards Organization, and the Ministry of Health. To control imports and support domestic production, the government closely supervises the import of these products.
Iran is highly reliant on imports to meet its domestic sugar and sugar cube needs. Major countries exporting sugar and sugar cube to Iran include Brazil, India, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates. Owing to high production capacity, these countries account for a significant portion of global sugar exports. White sugar and sugar cubes are Iran’s main imported products from these countries. Considering geography and strong demand, importing sugar and sugar cube plays a key role in Iran’s domestic market.
Regarding exports, Iran is recognized as a regional producer of sugar. Although domestic sugar production is limited, during certain seasons when local sugar output rises, Iran exports this product to neighboring countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan. Overall, Iran’s sugar exports are much smaller than its imports and are primarily focused on satisfying domestic demand.

3) Customs Duties & HS Codes for Sugar & Sugar Cube

Product Short Description HS Code
Raw sugar (unrefined) For refining 1701.12
Refined sugar / solid sugar cube Direct/industrial use 1701.99
Liquid sugars (various) Syrups & solutions 1702.90

Exact classification can vary based on product type, purity, formulation, and origin/destination.

4) Required Documents for Sugar & Sugar Cube Clearance

  1. Bill of Lading
    A key document containing shipper/consignee details, package count, weight, cargo type, and transport particulars. It is used as the main reference to track the shipment throughout carriage and clearance.
  2. Commercial Invoice
    States monetary value, quantity/weight, packaging type, and other commercial details. It is crucial for calculating import duties and taxes and must reflect the true value accurately.
  3. Health Certificate
    Mandatory for food imports such as sugar & sugar cube. Issued by health authorities in the origin country, confirming compliance with the destination’s hygiene standards. Without it, entry is denied.
  4. Packing List
    Provides packaging method, number of packages, each package’s weight and dimensions. Helps customs inspect cargo and match with other documents like the B/L.
  5. Certificate of Origin
    Confirms the country where the goods were produced or obtained. Important for preferential tariffs within trade agreements; issued by the chamber of commerce or competent bodies in the origin country.
  6. Import License
    The order registration/permit issued by the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade or relevant bodies, allowing the importer to bring the goods in. It is mandatory prior to import.
  7. Standards Certificate
    In some cases, the Iranian National Standards Organization requires proof of compliance with national standards—especially important for food products like sugar & sugar cube.
  8. Inspection Certificate
    Issued by accredited inspection companies, confirming the shipment was examined before dispatch and matches declared specifications. Reassures the importer of quality/spec compliance.
  9. Cargo Insurance Policy
    Covers potential risks (damage/theft) during transit. Though not directly mandatory for clearance, it is a supportive document if issues arise.
  10. Customs Declaration
    Submitted by the importer or their broker, including product type, value, origin, and destination. It forms the basis for duty/tax calculation and must be accurate and factual.

5) Import/Export Volume & Conditions

Iran’s sugar & sugar cube imports total millions of tons annually. Given high domestic demand and the need to secure these staples, Iran is one of the largest sugar importers in the Middle East. Imports usually range around
2 to 3 million tons per year. In some seasons, when domestic output rises, limited exports of sugar to neighbors such as Iraq and Afghanistan may occur. Compared to imports, Iran’s sugar exports are much smaller—typically limited to a few hundred thousand tons.

6) Order Registration & Obtaining Permits

Permits from the Ministry of IMT, the National Standards Organization, and—if needed—the Ministry of Health are required to import sugar & sugar cube. Meeting these requirements, as noted above, is advised to avoid delays and discrepancies during clearance.

7) Global Turnover, Major Exporters & Importers

Global sugar & sugar cube turnover
Worldwide, sugar is among the most important traded commodities. Annual global turnover reaches billions of dollars, and many markets heavily depend on it. Brazil is the largest producer and exporter, responsible for about 40% of global sugar production and exports each year. India and Thailand are also major sugar exporters, significantly influencing global markets with large volumes of raw and refined sugar.
Conversely, China, the United States, and European countries are among the largest sugar importers. As the world’s biggest consumer, China imports the largest volume of raw sugar. The European Union, due to high consumption in food & beverage industries, is also a major importer. Iran is likewise a key sugar importer in the Middle East, with its domestic market highly dependent on imports.
Major global exporters of sugar & sugar cube
Brazil, India, and Thailand are the top sugar exporters. Brazil, exporting over 20 million tons annually, commands the largest share of the global market. India, given its high sugarcane production, has captured part of the world export market in recent years. Thailand, as a leading Asian exporter, also ships significant volumes.
Major global importers of sugar & sugar cube
Large economies such as China, the United States, and European countries are top importers. China, one of the largest consumers, imports millions of tons annually to meet industrial and consumer needs. The U.S. also imports significant volumes due to high usage in food & beverage industries. EU countries, due to environmental rules and limited domestic output, source part of their needs via imports.

Need an exact HS Code and permit guidance? Our team manages the case end-to-end.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the HS Codes for raw and refined sugar?

Per your text: raw sugar is usually 1701.12, and refined sugar/solid sugar cube is typically 1701.99; liquid sugars fall under 1702.90.

Which permits are required to import sugar & sugar cube?

Permits from the Ministry of IMT, the National Standards Organization, and—where applicable—the Ministry of Health; plus documents like B/L, invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, health certificate, and inspection certificate if required.

What is the typical import volume of sugar into Iran?

As stated in your text: about 2 to 3 million tons per year, with limited seasonal exports to neighboring countries.

Who are the major global importers and exporters?

Exporters: Brazil, India, Thailand. Importers: China, the U.S., and European countries — as per your provided content.

Multimedia Suggestions

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  • Alt Text: Sugar & Sugar Cube Clearance in Iran | HS 1701 & 1702
  • Caption: «Sugar & sugar cube clearance steps: from IMT & Standards permits to customs declaration»
  • Infographic: «Clearance checklist for sugar & sugar cube + permit pathway»

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Summary & Call to Action

For sugar & sugar cube clearance given hygiene and standards sensitivities precise document planning and obtaining permits are essential. Saba Tarkhis leverages practical experience to process your case swiftly and in full compliance.

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Special Customs Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage

With years of experience in customs clearance and cooperation with major import/export companies, Saba Brokerage is one of Iran’s most reputable customs brokers. Our special services for sugar & sugar cube clearance include:

Expert consulting on tariffs & customs regulations: Our specialists provide the latest information on duties, import/export regulations, and required permits to prevent issues during clearance.

Handling all order registrations: We register orders and obtain required permits from government bodies such as the Ministry of IMT and the Standards Organization with fast, ongoing follow-ups for a smooth process.

Tracking & expediting customs clearance: Speed matters. Through continuous follow-up and direct communication with customs offices, we ensure your goods are released in the shortest possible time without delays.

Full management of duties & fiscal matters: We fully manage the calculation and timely payment of import duties and related taxes so you can focus on your core business.

Logistics & delivery: We also arrange transportation and unloading with international and domestic carriers to ensure fast, secure movement of your cargo.

Contact our experts for more information.

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