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Customs Clearance of Processed and Modified Starch in Iran (HS Code + Documents and Permits)
Processed starch is one of the most important raw materials in many industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, papermaking, and textiles. Thanks to its unique physical and chemical properties, it plays a key role in improving production processes and enhancing the quality of final products. Processed starches are obtained by applying physical, chemical, or enzymatic modifications to native starch in order to improve functionality across different products. Therefore, its import and export are among the key items in the trade cycle of many countries.
For estimating time and cost of processed starch clearance, contact Saba Tarkhis experts.
Instant Free ConsultationWho is this for? (Search Intent)
- Informational: overview of starch types, HS Code, and standards
- Transactional: proforma request and fast clearance execution for processed starch
- Educational: document checklist, step-by-step process, and tips to reduce cost/time
1) Detailed Description of Processed and Modified Starch
“Processed starch” (Modified/Processed Starch) is a family of starches that reach better functional properties by applying physical, chemical, or enzymatic changes to native starch such as thermal stability, shear resistance, favorable rheology, controlled gelatinization, emulsification, and gel formation. These features have made processed starch clearance crucial for industries like food & beverage, pharma, paper, bio-based packaging, textiles, and hygiene. In the supply chain, accurate tariff classification, sanitary standards, and technical documentation are the keys to moving quickly through customs.
2) Starch Types, Applications, and Customs HS Code
Starch is a widely used raw material across industries due to its diverse features and cross-process applicability. Each type has distinct physical and chemical characteristics and therefore different applications.
1. Native Starch
HS Code: 1108.1100
Application:
Native starch is obtained from sources such as corn, wheat, rice, and potato. In the food industry it is used as a thickener and stabilizer in products like sauces, soups, and confectionery. It is also used in pharmaceuticals, textiles, and papermaking.
2. Modified Starch
HS Code: 3505.1000
Application:
Modified starch is improved via physical, chemical, or enzymatic changes and offers better properties than native starch. In food, it is used for low-fat products, heat-resistant applications, and as thickeners. In pharma it is used as a tablet/capsule filler. It is also used in paper and textile industries to enhance quality.
3. Corn Starch
HS Code: 1108.1200
Application:
Derived from corn kernels, it is among the most widely used starches. In food it is used for bakery, pastry, desserts, sauces, and as a thickener in processed foods. In pharma/personal care it serves as a moisture absorber and texturizer.
4. Potato Starch
HS Code: 1108.1300
Application:
With high water absorption and strong viscosity, it is used as a thickener/stabilizer in foods like sausages, cold cuts, and cakes. It is also used in textiles and paper to improve input quality.
5. Wheat Starch
HS Code: 1108.1900
Application:
Due to compatibility with bakery/pastry products, it is used in bread, biscuits, and cakes. It is also used to thicken sauces and desserts, and in pharma/personal care as a filler and stabilizer.
6. Tapioca Starch
HS Code: 1108.1400
Application:
Obtained from cassava root, it is used in foods especially desserts, gluten-free bread, and processed products. It is also used in pharma/cosmetics as a thickener and stabilizer.
7. Waxy Starch
HS Code: 1108.1100 (under native starch)
Application:
Extracted from waxy corn, its long-chain molecules provide resistance to heat and pressure. It is used in ready-to-eat and processed foods, as well as in pharma and paper.
8. Enzyme-Resistant Starch (Resistant Starch)
HS Code: 3505.1000 (under modified starch)
Application:
Resistant to digestion, it serves as a fiber source in healthy/low-calorie foods and as a prebiotic in food production.
9. Pregelatinized Starch
HS Code: 3505.1000
Application:
Processed to dissolve rapidly in water and form gels. It is used in instant foods such as soup powders, sauces, and ready desserts; in pharma as a filler; and in cosmetics as a thickener.
10. Amphiphilic Starch
HS Code: 3505.1000
Application:
With both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties, it is used to produce food/pharma/cosmetic emulsifiers especially useful in skin-care creams and lotions.
3) Key Notes in Starch Customs Clearance
- Correct HS determination based on botanical source/processing type and industrial use (Chapter 11 for native starches and 3505.1000 for modified starches).
- Prepare MSDS/COA and a technical datasheet to match properties with standards and ensure accurate declaration.
- Pre-submit documents in customs e-systems to reduce dwell time and demurrage.
- Coordinate with the Food & Drug Organization/Standards Organization for food/pharma goods.
4) Standards and Special Conditions for Importing Processed Starch
Food safety standards: Processed starch intended for food use must comply with international food safety standards such as HACCP, Codex Alimentarius, and relevant frameworks.
Health certificates: Importers must obtain approvals related to food and pharmaceutical safety from competent bodies, including Iran’s Food & Drug Organization and the Iran National Standards Organization. These confirm safety for human consumption and industrial processes.
Quality testing: Processed starch must be tested by accredited labs for quality, purity, and compliance with national/international regulations to ensure it meets end-user requirements.
Customs regulations and tariffs: Processed starch must be imported under its correct tariff (e.g., HS 3505.1000 for modified starches). Attention to tariffs and import rules helps speed up clearance.
5) Export Conditions for Processed Starch from Iran
Exporting processed starch from Iran requires meeting the destination country’s regulations and holding standard certificates. As a regional producer, Iran has suitable export capacity to neighboring and global markets. Key points include:International quality/standards: Export products must comply with destination-country and international requirements, such as ISO 22000 (food safety) and related standards building customer trust and facilitating export.
Packaging and labeling: Processed starch must be exported with appropriate packaging and labeling per destination regulations to satisfy safety/hygiene requirements and avoid returns or holds at customs.
Target markets: Neighboring countries such as Türkiye, Iraq, the UAE, and Qatar are primary export markets for Iran’s processed starch due to geographic proximity and demand for quality products.
6) Import/Export Status of Processed Starch to/from Iran
Iran mainly imports processed starch from China, India, Germany, and Türkiye. Due to its widespread use in food and pharma, Iran is a major regional importer. Annual import volumes vary with market needs and domestic capacity, but statistics indicate Iran imports about 50,000 to 70,000 tons per year.
Exports of processed starch from Iran to neighboring and global markets are also increasing. With modern plants and the ability to produce quality starches, Iran has recently met a large share of regional demand. Exports are estimated at about 10,000 to 15,000 tons annually.
7) Global Circulation of Processed Starch
The global processed starch market grows significantly each year. Owing to its diverse applications, it commands high trade volumes. In 2023, the market value reached around USD 60 billion and is expected to increase in coming years driven by strong demand from food, pharma, and industrial sectors.
Major exporters include China, Germany, the United States, and the Netherlands, leveraging advanced technology and scale. China is recognized as one of the largest exporters by volume.
Major importers include developing and industrial countries with high demand in food and pharma such as India, Türkiye, Brazil, Iran, and European countries.
8) Required Documents for Starch Clearance
Like any product, clearing starch from customs requires preparing and submitting a complete set of documents. These not only detail the goods but also ensure compliance with customs and health regulations of the importing country.1. Customs Declaration
The key document completed by the importer or customs broker, including exact details of the goods, quantity, value, and transport information the first step in clearance.
2. Commercial Invoice
Issued by the seller, detailing unit price, quantity, total value, terms of sale used to determine customs value and duties.
3. Packing List
Provides details on packing method, number of packages, gross/net weights, and other package specs used for physical examination and cross-checking.
4. Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
Issued by the carrier, showing shipment details from origin to destination one of the most important documents for clearance.
5. Certificate of Origin
Issued by the origin country’s Chamber of Commerce, identifying the producing country important for preferential tariffs and duty calculation.
6. Health Certificate
Mandatory when the starch is for food or pharma use issued by competent health authorities at origin, confirming compliance with safety standards.
7. Import Permit from the Food & Drug Organization
Required for processed starch used in food/pharma applications, confirming sanitary and safety approvals.
8. Standard Certificate
Showing compliance with Iran national standards and relevant international standards ensuring quality/spec conformity.
9. Delivery Order
Issued by the carrier after arrival, allowing the importer to take delivery from port/airport one of the final steps.
10. Cargo Insurance Policy
Proves the cargo was insured during transit. Critical in case of loss/damage.
11. Industrial Operation License
If the imported starch is for industrial/production use in factories, the factory’s operation license must be presented showing lawful activity and use in domestic production.
12. Quarantine Permit (if required)
Needed when sourced from certain botanicals or when additional sanitary checks are required confirming the product’s safety after health/environmental inspections.
9) Clearance Method: Fastest Way to Clear Processed Starch in Iran
- Technical review and precise HS determination (Chapter 11/3505.1000) based on source, processing, and application
- Order registration, FX arrangement/without FX transfer, shipment plan, and insurance
- Pre-submission of documents, coordination with FDO/Standards, inspection booking
- EPL declaration, document control, obtaining legal permits, and assessment
- Payment of duties/taxes, exit permit, transportation, and delivery to destination
Need precise HS classification, order registration, and permits? Our team manages end-to-end clearance of processed starch.
Submit Proforma RequestFAQs on Processed Starch Clearance
What is the HS Code for modified starch?
It is commonly declared under 3505.1000; however, the source, processing, and application may affect the subheading.
What permits are required for food-grade starch clearance?
Approvals from the Food & Drug Organization, lab results (COA), compliance with HACCP/Codex, and national standard certificate if required.
How do we shorten the clearance time for processed starch?
Pre-submit documents, accurate HS determination, coordination with FDO/Standards, and full use of customs e-systems.
What is the customs difference between native and modified starch?
Native starch is under Chapter 11 (e.g., 1108.11/1200/1300/1400/1900) while modified starches are mainly declared under 3505.1000.
Multimedia Suggestions
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modified-starch-customs-clearance-iran.jpg - Alt Text: Processed starch clearance from Iran customs | HS 3505.1000 and Chapter 11
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- Infographic: «Comparative table of starch types + HS + documents»
- Suggested video: «5 common mistakes in declaring modified starch and practical fixes» (2–3 minutes)
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Summary and Call to Action
Processed starch clearance, due to diverse HS lines, sanitary requirements, and stringent standards, requires precise planning and document management. Saba Tarkhis leverages hands-on experience to move your process fast and in full compliance.
Request Expert Consultation Get Clearance Proforma10) Saba Brokerage’s Special Services in Processed Starch Clearance
Specialized consulting: Our experts provide comprehensive advice on customs laws and tariffs to help clients complete clearance in the simplest and fastest way.
Full customs follow-up: All stages including obtaining required permits, quality checks, and duty payments are handled with accuracy and speed so goods are released smoothly.
Standards compliance: Prominent services include quality control and compliance with national/international standards to ensure product safety and quality.
Cost and time reduction: Thanks to strong links with customs and regulatory bodies, extra costs are reduced and wait times minimized.
As a reputable customs broker in Iran, we provide specialized services to perform all stages of processed starch clearance accurately and quickly, fully compliant with regulations.
