1209.21.00
Alfalfa (lucerne) seeds
HTS code 1209.21.00 covers alfalfa (lucerne) seeds, which are used for sowing purposes. These seeds generally have a duty of 1.5¢/kg, though preferential rates—including duty-free access—may apply for imports from certain countries as detailed in the duty information, and fall within Chapter 12 concerning seeds and grains.

Detailed information for HTS Code 1209.21.00
This tariff classification falls within Chapter 12, which covers seeds, fruits, and spores for sowing, specifically focusing on seeds of forage plants. Code 1209.21.00 designates alfalfa (lucerne) seeds, covering both certified and other varieties. The statistical suffixes .20 and .40 differentiate between certified seeds and all other alfalfa seeds, so choose the suffix that accurately reflects the seed’s certification status. Duty rates are generally 1.5¢/kg, with potential free rates for certain trade partners and those covered by preference programs.
| Chapter | Chapter 12 - Oil seeds and oleaginous fruits; miscellaneous grains, seeds and fruits; industrial or medicinal pla |
| Section | Section II - Vegetable Products |
Duty snapshot
Quick reference for the duty outcomes tied to this HTS line.
1.5¢/kg
Standard trade partners (NTR)
Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)
Eligible FTA or preference programs
The duty for Alfalfa (lucerne) seeds (HTS code 1209.21.00) is generally 1.5¢/kg, reported in kilograms. However, a free rate applies to imports from specific countries including Australia, Canada, and others listed (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) if they qualify under eligible Free Trade Agreements or preference programs. This free rate applies to both subdivisions, 1209.21.00.20 (Certified) and 1209.21.00.40 (Other), provided the origin and program requirements are met; otherwise, the general rate of 1.5¢/kg applies to both. No special duty rates or requirements are specified for the subdivisions themselves.
Rate of Duty (Column 2): 17.6¢/kg
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Code subdivisions
1209.21.00.20
Seeds, fruits and spores of a kind used for sowing: > Seeds of forage plants: > Alfalfa (lucerne) seeds > Certified
1209.21.00.40
Seeds, fruits and spores of a kind used for sowing: > Seeds of forage plants: > Alfalfa (lucerne) seeds > Other
Chapter & section notes
Chapter notes
Section notes
Latest update
Last updated
November 15, 2025
Revised every January & July
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