Vegetables, root; salad beetroot, salsify, celeric, radishes and similar edible roots, fresh or chilled

HS code 070690 covers a diverse range of fresh or chilled edible root vegetables, including salad beetroot, salsify, celery root (celeriac), radishes, and other similar roots. These vegetables are widely cultivated and consumed globally, playing a vital role in the international food trade and contributing to food security and dietary diversity. The production and trade of these root vegetables are significant economic activities, with their versatility and nutritional value making them an important part of many national and regional cuisines.

The production of the vegetables covered under HS code 070690 typically involves traditional farming methods, such as planting, tending, and harvesting. Depending on the specific crop, the cultivation process may involve techniques like direct seeding, transplanting seedlings, or even hydroponics. Post-harvest handling, including cleaning, sorting, and packaging, is also an important aspect of bringing these fresh root vegetables to market.

The main inputs required for the production of the vegetables under HS code 070690 include arable land, suitable soil, water for irrigation, and agricultural equipment and machinery. Depending on the specific crop, other inputs such as seeds or seedlings, fertilizers, and pest control products may also be necessary. The availability and quality of these inputs can significantly impact the yield and quality of the final products.

The primary output of the industry covered by HS code 070690 is the fresh or chilled root vegetables themselves, which are then distributed and consumed both domestically and internationally. These vegetables may be used as ingredients in a wide range of culinary applications, from salads and side dishes to soups and stews. The outputs of this industry may also be further processed, such as into frozen or canned products, which would then fall under other HS codes, such as 0710 Vegetables, frozen or 0711 Vegetables provisionally preserved.