
Key Highlights:
- The HSN code for turmeric powder and other spices falls under Chapter 9.
- Since July 1, 2017, most spices, including turmeric, ginger, and saffron, have attracted a 5% GST rate with 0% cess.
- Correct HSN codes simplify tax filing and prevent errors.
- The GST on spices impacts pricing, trade, and exports, making compliance crucial for smooth business operations.
Ginger, saffron, turmeric, thyme, bay leaves, and curry are essential spices used in kitchens and traditional medicine. Under GST, these spices are classified with specific HSN codes to ensure proper taxation. For example, the turmeric powder HSN code falls under a broader category for spices, making tax filing easier for traders and businesses.The GST rate depends on whether the spice is fresh, dried, or powdered. Proper classification under HSN codes helps businesses avoid tax errors and ensures smooth trade. Understanding these codes and GST rates is important for farmers, traders, and exporters. Let’s explore their taxation in detail. Also Read - Understand the meaning of GST compliance rating
HSN Code and Its Significance
The harmonised system of nomenclature (HSN) codes follow a structured format to classify goods based on their nature and use. For spices like turmeric, ginger, saffron, thyme, bay leaves, and curry, the 8-digit HSN code provides a more detailed classification. Here's how it works:
- 2-digit code : Broad category – Spices fall under Chapter 09 (Coffee, Tea, Mate, and Spices).
- 4-digit code : Further classification – 0910 is assigned to ginger, turmeric, saffron, thyme, bay leaves, and curry.
- 6-digit code : More specific grouping – Example: 0910 30 is for turmeric, 0910 11 for ginger, and so on.
- 8-digit code : Defines product variations – For instance, 091030 10 may specify ground turmeric, while 091030 20 could be whole turmeric.
Benefits of the HSN System
The detailed structure of the HSN code helps in the following ways: Accurate Taxation The 8-digit code ensures the correct GST rate applies based on the product type (whole, powdered, or processed). Simplified Trade and Compliance Helps businesses avoid errors in invoicing and regulatory compliance. Ease of Tax Filing The right turmeric powder HSN code simplifies invoicing and helps businesses claim input tax credit (ITC) on GST paid for raw materials. Global Recognition Ensures uniformity in domestic and international trade, making imports and exports of spices smoother. Also Read - Here's your GST calendar for 2024-25 with all the due dates
Ginger, Saffron, Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry, Turmeric Powder HSN Codes and GST Slabs
Spices like ginger, saffron, turmeric, thyme, bay leaves, and curry come under Chapter 9 of the HSN system. Since July 1, 2017, they have been taxed at different GST rates with no cess charges applied. Given below is the detailed list:
| HSN Code | Description | Rate (%) |
| 0910 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices-Ginger--Neither Crushed nor Ground---Fresh | 5 |
| 9101110 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices-Ginger--Neither Crushed nor Ground---Fresh | Nil |
| 9101120 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices-Ginger--Neither Crushed nor Ground---Dried, Unbleached | 5 |
| 9101130 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices-Ginger--Neither Crushed nor Ground---Dried, Bleached | 5 |
| 9101190 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices-Ginger--Neither Crushed nor Ground---Other | 5 |
| 9101210 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices-Ginger--Crushed or Ground---Powder | 5 |
| 9101290 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices-Ginger--Crushed or Ground---Other | 5 |
| 9102010 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Saffron: Saffron Stigma | 5 |
| 9102020 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Saffron: Saffron Stamen | 5 |
| 9102090 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Saffron: Other | 5 |
| 9103010 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Turmeric (Curcuma): Fresh | Nil |
| 9103020 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Turmeric (Curcuma): Dried | 5 |
| 9103030 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Turmeric (Curcuma): Powder | 5 |
| 9103090 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Turmeric (Curcuma): Other | 5 |
| 9104010 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Thyme; Bay `Leaves: Tejpat (Leaves of Cassia Lignea) | 5 |
| 9104020 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Thyme; Bay Leaves: Thymes, Not Elsewhere Specified or Included | 5 |
| 9104030 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Thyme; Bay Leaves: Bay Leaves, Not Elsewhere Specified or Included | 5 |
| 9105000 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Curry | 5 |
| 9109100 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Mixtures Referred To In Note 1(B) To This Chapter | 5 |
| 9109911 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Seed: Celery | 5 |
| 9109912 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Seed: Fenugreek | 5 |
| 9109913 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Seed: Dill | 5 |
| 9109914 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Seed: Ajwain | 5 |
| 9109915 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Seed: Cassia Torea | 5 |
| 9109919 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Seed: Other | 5 |
| 9109921 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Powder: Cassia | 5 |
| 9109923 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Powder: Celery | 5 |
| 9109924 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Powder: Fenugreek | 5 |
| 9109925 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Powder: Dill | 5 |
| 9109926 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Powder: Poppy | 5 |
| 9109927 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Powder: Mustard | 5 |
| 9109929 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Powder: Other | 5 |
| 9109939 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Husk: Other | 5 |
| 9109990 | Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric (Curcuma), Thyme, Bay Leaves, Curry and Other Spices Other Spices: Other: Other | 5 |
Decoding the GST Rates and HSN Codes of Spices
The HSN code and GST rate of turmeric powder and other spices are important for the spice industry. They impact pricing, trade, and business compliance. A clear tax structure ensures fair pricing, supports exports, and helps businesses claim input tax credit (ITC). Knowing the right GST classification makes tax filing easier and keeps businesses on the right track.For easier GST computation, the online GST calculator can be a useful tool. It would ascertain the GST liability for your business making return filing easier. So, use the calculator and comply with GST rules efficiently.
FAQS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the HSN code for turmeric powder?
The HSN code for turmeric powder is 0910. It falls under Chapter 9, which covers spices.
What is the GST rate on turmeric powder?
Turmeric powder is taxed at 5% GST, with no cess charges.
Are all spices classified under the same HSN code?
No, different spices have unique HSN codes. For example, ginger (0910), saffron (0910), and bay leaves (0910) fall under Chapter 9, but they have specific subcategories.
What is the GST rate on dried ginger versus fresh ginger?
Fresh ginger is exempt from GST, while dried ginger (0910) is taxed at 5% GST.
Do farmers selling spices directly need to register for GST?
No, farmers selling unprocessed or fresh spices are exempt from GST and do not need registration. However, if they sell processed, branded, or packaged spices, GST may apply.
Does the GST rate for spices differ for packaged and loose products?
Yes, loose and unbranded spices may be GST-exempt, while packaged and branded ones are generally taxed at 5%.
How does GST impact spice traders and exporters?
GST simplifies taxation, making compliance easier. Exporters also benefit from zero-rated GST, allowing them to claim input tax credit (ITC).
Can spice businesses opt for the Composition Scheme under GST?
Yes, small spice traders with turnover up to ₹1.5 crore can opt for the Composition Scheme, paying GST at a lower rate.
Has the GST rate for spices changed since its introduction?
Since July 1, 2017, most spices have remained taxed at 5% GST, with no major revisions in rates.
Why is the correct HSN code important for spices?
Using the right HSN code ensures accurate GST calculation, prevents penalties, and helps in claiming ITC for businesses.
The information contained herein is generic in nature and is meant for educational purposes only. Nothing here is to be construed as an investment or financial or taxation advice nor to be considered as an invitation or solicitation or advertisement for any financial product. Readers are advised to exercise discretion and should seek independent professional advice prior to making any investment decision in relation to any financial product. Aditya Birla Capital Group is not liable for any decision arising out of the use of this information.

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