Fruit, edible; apricots, fresh

HS code 080910 covers the import and export of fresh apricots, a popular and versatile fruit with a wide range of culinary and commercial applications. Apricots are an important agricultural commodity, grown in many regions around the world and traded globally. The apricot industry plays a significant role in the global fruit trade, contributing to food security, economic development, and the livelihoods of farmers and exporters.

Apricots are typically grown on orchards or in specialized fruit-growing regions. The production process involves planting and cultivating apricot trees, managing the orchards through pruning, irrigation, and pest control, and harvesting the ripe fruit by hand or machine. Post-harvest handling includes sorting, grading, and packing the apricots to ensure they reach the market in optimal condition.

The main inputs required for the apricot industry include fertile agricultural land, suitable climate conditions, water for irrigation, and labor for planting, tending, and harvesting the crop. Specialized machinery, such as pruning tools, harvesters, and packing equipment, are also essential inputs. Growers may also use fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural inputs to maintain the health and productivity of their apricot orchards.

Fresh apricots produced under HS code 080910 are primarily consumed as a table fruit, either fresh or in various culinary preparations. They are also used as an ingredient in jams, preserves, and other processed food products. The apricot industry's outputs may be further processed or consumed by industries covered under other HS codes, such as 200811 Fruit, edible; apricots, prepared or preserved, 200860 Fruit, edible; cherries, prepared or preserved, and 200899 Fruit, edible; n.e.c. in item no. 2008.19, prepared or preserved.