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Customs Clearance of Various Types of Vinegar in Iran (HS Code + Documents & Permits)
To estimate the time and cost of clearing various vinegars, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
Instant & Free Consultation1) Types of Vinegar and Their Specialized Uses
Vinegars are divided into several types based on raw materials and production processes, each with specific characteristics and applications across different industries.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is mainly obtained from the fermentation of ethanol and is used in many household and industrial applications. Due to its high acidity, it is applied in cleaning processes, food preservation, and even in chemical industries.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Thanks to its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, apple cider vinegar is more commonly used in pharmaceutical and hygiene industries. It is also employed as a healthy additive in the food industry.
Grape Vinegar
Due to its distinctive taste and aroma, this type of vinegar is mostly used in cooking and food preparation. Grape vinegar is one of the most consumed types worldwide and is used in sauces, salads, and edible products.
Balsamic Vinegar
Produced mostly in Italy, balsamic vinegar is a premium vinegar with a sweet and slightly acidic taste. It is used in gourmet foods and high-end restaurants and, due to its higher price, falls into the category of special export products.
Rice Vinegar
Used mainly in Asian cuisine especially for sushi rice vinegar has a mild and slightly sweet taste. It is widely used in many Eastern dishes and is favored by professional chefs for its pleasant aroma and flavor.
2) Customs Tariff (HS Code) for Vinegar
The customs tariff or HS Code is an international system for identifying and classifying goods that plays a vital role in global trade. Vinegar’s tariff code in the Harmonized System (HS Code) is 220900. This code covers all types of vinegar including white, apple, grape, and balsamic. Using the correct tariff code in commercial and customs documents facilitates the clearance process and prevents any disputes in calculating customs duties and taxes.
| Vinegar Type | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| White vinegar | Ethanol fermentation; food/household/industrial uses | 22090000 |
| Apple cider vinegar | Hygiene/pharma & food applications | 22090000 |
| Grape vinegar | Culinary use, sauces & salads | 22090000 |
| Balsamic vinegar | Premium product with special process | 22090000 |
| Rice vinegar | Mild taste; widely used in Asian cuisine | 22090000 |
Exact subheading may depend on properties, formulation, origin, and trade agreements.
3) Special Conditions for Vinegar Import & Export
Due to the product’s variety and broad applications, vinegar imports and exports are affected by specific regulations that vary by country. As a food and hygiene product, vinegar requires special health and quality compliance that is mandatory for customs clearance. Below are detailed explanations of conditions for importing into and exporting from Iran, trade volumes, and key points in this field.
4) Importing Vinegar into Iran
For importing vinegar into Iran, obtaining a permit from the Food and Drug Organization (FDO) is essential. Given the health requirements of food products and the product’s sensitivity from a public health standpoint, this permit ensures the quality and safety of the imported product. In addition, imported vinegar must comply with Iran’s national quality and hygiene standards to be cleared smoothly through customs.
Countries such as Italy, France, Spain, and China are among the most important exporters of vinegar to Iran. Owing to high-quality products such as balsamic and fruit vinegars, these countries hold a significant share of Iran’s import market. Italy and France are particularly renowned for their balsamic vinegars, while China plays a larger role in producing lower-cost vinegars.
5) Exporting Vinegar from Iran
Iran, as a producer of quality vinegars—especially apple cider and grape vinegar—has high potential for exporting this product. Iran’s main export markets include neighboring countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, the Persian Gulf states, and parts of the Middle East. Vinegar exports from Iran must meet international standards and comply with the health regulations of destination countries. For example, many Gulf and Central Asian countries enforce strict requirements on imported foods.
6) Vinegar Import & Export Volumes Involving Iran
Based on available statistics, Iran imports considerable amounts of vinegar annually from European and Asian countries. The largest import volume pertains to specialty vinegars such as balsamic and fruit-based vinegars. Specifically, imports of balsamic vinegar are rising due to high demand in the Iranian market. Iran’s exports—especially grape and apple vinegars—to neighboring and regional markets are also thriving. Export volumes vary by season and foreign market demand, but Iran has significant capacity to export this product to various countries.
7) Global Circulation of Vinegar
The global vinegar market is steadily growing due to high demand in food and hygiene sectors. Balsamic and apple cider vinegars account for the largest share of global trade. Italy and France are among the largest vinegar exporters worldwide, while North America, Asia, and the Middle East are major importers. The global vinegar trade reaches billions of dollars, with European countries holding the largest share in production and exports. East Asian countries and North America, on the other hand, are principal importers.
8) Major Global Exporters and Importers of Vinegar
- Italy: the largest exporter of balsamic vinegar.
- France: exporter of high-quality vinegars, especially grape vinegar.
- Spain: producer of diverse vinegars with various flavors.
- Germany: exporter of industrial and food-grade vinegars.
- United States: the largest importer of balsamic and apple vinegars.
- China: major importer for industrial and food uses.
- Middle Eastern countries: Saudi Arabia and the UAE are key importers of high-quality European vinegars.
- Japan: an important market for specialty culinary vinegars.
9) Required Documents for Vinegar Customs Clearance
To ensure a smooth and problem-free clearance of vinegar through customs, all required documents must be properly submitted. Beyond proving the product’s authenticity and quality, these documents help customs authorities to fully inspect the goods and issue release permission.
- Commercial Invoice: full product specs including vinegar type, quantity, price, and transaction terms—basis for valuation and duty calculation.
- Packing List: number and type of packages, net/gross weight, and package volume.
- Bill of Lading: transport details (sea/land/air) and proof of shipment from origin to destination.
- Health Certificate: confirmation of product safety per food standards.
- Certificate of Origin: identifies producing country for tariff assessment.
- Import License: required in some cases for certain vinegar types.
- Conformity Certificate: proof of compliance with national standards of the destination (if requested).
Need precise HS 22090000 classification and health permits? Our team manages your case end-to-end.
Request a ProformaFrequently Asked Questions
What is the HS Code for vinegar?
Vinegar types (white, apple, grape, balsamic, rice, etc.) are generally classified under 22090000; final determination depends on properties and formulation.
What permit is required to import vinegar into Iran?
A permit from the Food and Drug Organization and compliance with national standards are mandatory; base documents such as invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and health certificate must also be provided.
Who are the main vinegar exporters to Iran?
Italy, France, Spain, and China; Italy and France are especially renowned for balsamic.
Which countries import Iranian vinegar?
Neighboring countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and Persian Gulf markets; compliance with destination standards is mandatory.
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Summary & Call to Action
Summary & Call to Action
Vinegar clearance—due to health requirements, standards, and diverse tariff headings—demands precise documentation planning and professional follow-up. With hands-on experience, Saba Tarkhis advances your case quickly and in full compliance with regulations.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Clearance ProformaSpecial Customs Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage
With an experienced, specialized team, Saba Brokerage manages all clearance stages from entry to release and prevents delays and potential issues. Services include:
- Specialized consulting: We help you prepare all required documents, including health permits and national/international standards.
- Obtaining health and import permits: All necessary permits from the Food and Drug Organization and other health authorities are obtained swiftly and accurately.
- Fast, hassle-free clearance: With extensive experience in food clearance, all vinegar clearance steps are completed in the shortest possible time.
- Post-clearance support: After-release services include transportation and rapid distribution to domestic and foreign markets.
