An amendment to the Customs Tariff Act (1975) was introduced to provide an HS (Harmonised System) code for GI-recognised rice varieties.

• The amendment will make it possible for the exports of GI-tagged rice without any problem or special notification from the Ministry of Finance. 

About HS

• Definition: HS is a global product classification system developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO).
• Classification Structure: 
  • HS assigns specific six-digit codes for varying classifications and commodities. 
  • Countries are allowed to add longer codes to the first six digits for further classification.
• Governance and Updates
  • HS is governed by "The International Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System".
  • HS Committee, made up of member countries, oversees the HS classification system and also updates HS every 5 – 6 years.
• Widespread adoption
  • Classifies approximately 98% of international trade
  • Encompasses over 5,000 commodity groups
  • Implemented by more than 200 countries
• Benefits of HS 
  • Common coding method helps countries organize and track products in global trade.
  • Extensively used by governments, international organizations and private organisations for internal taxes, trade policies, etc.
  • Reduces international trade costs and spports economic research