Fruit, edible; grapes, dried

HS code 080620 covers the classification of dried grapes, also known as raisins. Raisins are a significant agricultural commodity, with global production and trade playing a crucial role in the international food supply chain. As a dried fruit product, raisins are valued for their nutritional properties, versatility in culinary applications, and long shelf life, making them an important ingredient in various food and beverage industries.

The production of dried grapes, or raisins, involves several key steps. Grapes are typically harvested, washed, and then exposed to sunlight or heated air to remove moisture, resulting in the shriveled, concentrated fruit. Depending on the variety and desired characteristics, the grapes may undergo additional processing, such as treatment with sulfur dioxide to preserve color and flavor or mechanical drying in specialized facilities.

The primary inputs required for the production of HS code 080620 dried grapes include fresh grape harvests, processing equipment (such as drying racks or dehydration chambers), and labor. Grape cultivars suitable for drying, as well as access to reliable water sources and favorable climatic conditions, are also essential for efficient raisin production.

The main output of HS code 080620 is dried grapes, or raisins, which are consumed as a snack, used as an ingredient in various food products, and incorporated into 210690 Food preparations not elsewhere specified or included. Raisins may also be further processed into other dried fruit products, such as 081340 Fruit, dried, other than that of headings 0801 to 0806; mixtures of nuts or dried fruits of this chapter.