Jeera HSN Code - Classification for Whole, Cumin and Jeera Powder
Jeera or cumin seeds are one of the most widely used spices in Indian kitchens. They are sold as whole seeds, ground powder and in many blended spice mixes. From a GST point of view, jeera is treated as an agricultural and food product, so its HSN classification and GST rate are important for traders and manufacturers.
Because jeera is often purchased in bulk from mandis and then cleaned, graded, packed or ground, every stage of the supply chain needs clarity on the correct HSN code. This avoids confusion when claiming input tax credit and while filing GST returns.
HSN Code and GST Rate for Jeera
| Product | Typical HSN Heading | Typical GST Rate | Product Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeera, cumin seeds, jeera powder | 0909 (Seeds of cumin and other spices) | 5% for most taxable supplies | Jeera in whole seed or ground (powder) form used as a spice. |
Note. Some supplies of agricultural produce may be exempt when sold by farmers or as unbranded produce. Always check the latest GST notifications and exemption entries for jeera and cumin seeds.
What Is the HSN Code for Jeera (Cumin Seeds)?
Whole jeera or cumin seeds are usually classified under HSN heading 0909. This heading covers seeds of cumin and a few related spices. Within this heading, cumin seeds have their own specific sub heading, but for day to day invoicing the four digit code 0909 is commonly used as the base.
Traders should describe the product clearly as jeera or cumin seeds on the invoice and mention the correct HSN along with quantity, unit price and GST rate.
How Whole Jeera and Cumin Seeds Are Classified under HSN
Whole jeera sold in loose form, gunny bags or retail packs is treated as a spice. Even when the seeds are cleaned, graded or mechanically sorted, they usually remain in the same HSN heading 0909.
If jeera is roasted, added to spice mixes or processed further into masala blends, classification can change depending on the main ingredient and product description. In those cases, the blended masala heading may apply instead of the pure jeera heading.
The HSN Code for Jeera Powder
Jeera powder is made by grinding whole cumin seeds. In many cases, ground jeera is also classified under the same broad spice heading 0909, although tariff notes and rate entries should be checked to confirm the exact sub heading for powdered forms.
Labels and invoices should make it clear that the product is jeera powder and not a mixed masala. This helps match it with the correct HSN and GST rate entry.
GST on Jeera and Cumin Products
Most taxable supplies of jeera and jeera powder attract GST at 5%. However, unbranded agricultural produce supplied by farmers or in certain primary market transactions may be exempt from GST under specific entries.
Packers and branded spice manufacturers should track whether their jeera products are exempt, taxable at 5% or covered by any special notification. They should also maintain clear records of purchases and sales for smooth GST return filing.
Jagdish Prasad is a Chartered Accountant with over 5 years of experience. He helps people and businesses with GST, income tax, and HSN codes. Jagdish makes sure his clients follow all tax rules and save money the right way. He also enjoys writing simple articles to help others understand taxes and stay updated with the latest rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the HSN code for whole jeera?
Whole jeera or cumin seeds are generally classified under HSN heading 0909, which covers cumin and certain other spice seeds.
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Is jeera powder classified differently under HSN?
Jeera powder is often covered under the same broad spice heading 0909, but the exact sub heading for ground or powdered spices should be checked in the tariff.
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How does GST apply to jeera and cumin seeds?
Most taxable supplies of jeera and jeera powder attract GST at 5%, while some primary supplies of unbranded agricultural produce may be exempt.
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Are cumin seeds and jeera powder under the same HSN code?
In many cases both whole cumin seeds and jeera powder fall under heading 0909, though detailed sub headings can differ for whole and ground forms.
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Can packaging affect the HSN code for jeera products?
Packaging usually does not change the HSN heading, but branding, product mixing and level of processing can impact both the applicable HSN and GST rate.