Spices; cinnamon and cinnamon-tree flowers, crushed or ground

HS code 090620 covers spices, specifically cinnamon and cinnamon-tree flowers, that have been crushed or ground. Cinnamon is a highly valued spice derived from the inner bark of several tree species in the genus Cinnamomum. It is widely used in both culinary and medicinal applications, making it an important global commodity. The cinnamon industry plays a significant role in the international spice trade, contributing to the broader food and beverage sector.

The production of crushed or ground cinnamon and cinnamon-tree flowers involves several key steps. First, the cinnamon bark is harvested from the trees, typically by skilled workers. The bark is then dried, during which it curls into the familiar cinnamon sticks. Next, the dried bark is ground or crushed into a fine powder using specialized milling equipment. For cinnamon-tree flowers, the flowers are also dried and then ground. The resulting powdered spices are then packaged and distributed for use in various food, beverage, and pharmaceutical products.

The main inputs required for the production of crushed or ground cinnamon and cinnamon-tree flowers include the raw cinnamon bark and flowers, which are typically sourced from cinnamon-producing regions. Additionally, machinery such as grinders, mills, and packaging equipment are necessary for the processing and distribution of the final products. Labor, energy, and transportation resources are also important inputs in this industry.

The primary outputs of HS code 090620 are the crushed or ground forms of cinnamon and cinnamon-tree flowers. These spices are widely used in the food and beverage industry, often as flavoring agents in baked goods, hot drinks, and various other culinary applications. The outputs of this industry may also be consumed by manufacturers of 330210 Essential oils and resinoids and 330290 Mixtures of odoriferous substances, as cinnamon is a common ingredient in many fragrance and personal care products.