Fresh Serrano Peppers
Fresh serrano peppers are small, cylindrical chili peppers harvested at the green or red stage, known for their intense heat and fresh flavor used in Mexican cuisine. They are classified under HTS 0709.60.20.60 as fresh or chilled fruits of the genus Capsicum, specifically serrano variety, not dried, ground, or preserved for immediate consumption.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If Hungarian wax peppers
Hungarian wax variety shifts to different statistical suffix within chili peppers heading.
If provisionally preserved in brine or sulfur dioxide for transport
Treated solely for provisional preservation moves to heading 0711, unsuitable for immediate consumption.
If dried, crushed, or ground
Chapter note excludes dried Capsicum fruits from Chapter 7, classifying under spices in heading 0904.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Obtain phytosanitary certificates from exporting country to verify pest-free status and compliance with USDA APHIS requirements
• Maintain cold chain with temperatures between 7-10°C during transit to prevent spoilage and chilling injury
• Declare exact variety as 'Serrano' on entry documents; misclassification as generic chili peppers may lead to delays
Related Products under HTS 0709.60.20.60
Organic Fresh Serrano Peppers
Certified organic serrano peppers grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, picked fresh for vibrant color and maximum spiciness. Falls under HTS 0709.60.20.60 as fresh serrano peppers; organic status reported per General Statistical Note 6 but does not change base classification.
Green Serrano Chili Peppers
Immature green serrano peppers harvested before ripening, offering bright flavor with medium-high heat ideal for salsas. Classified as fresh or chilled serrano peppers under HTS 0709.60.20.60, distinct from ripe red varieties.
Red Ripe Serrano Peppers
Fully ripened red serrano peppers with sweeter profile and concentrated heat, used in sauces and dried preparations. HTS 0709.60.20.60 applies to all fresh/chilled serrano peppers regardless of color stage.
Mexican Heirloom Serrano Peppers
Traditional heirloom serrano peppers from specific Mexican regions, prized for authentic flavor profiles in gourmet applications. Classified under HTS 0709.60.20.60 as fresh serrano variety regardless of heirloom status.