New

Udeetta Sarma

April 9, 2025

Blog |

Explore GST

Basics of GST

GST Rates and 0910 HSN Code for Ginger, Saffron, Turmeric, Thyme, Bay Leaves, and Curry

Spices like ginger, saffron, turmeric, thyme, bay leaves, and curry leaves are an inseparable part of the rich culinary and medicinal heritage of India. On the other hand, for businesses indulging in these goods, knowledge of the 0910 HSN code and the corresponding GST rates is vital for staying compliant and operating seamlessly.

So, in this article, we’ll tell you about the HSN codes and GST rates of these spices so that you can get tax ready.

What is the 0910 HSN Code?

HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) code is an internationally adopted system used by different countries to classify goods. For GST filings, HSN codes are important in India.

The 0910 HSN code specifically applies to:

Ginger
Saffron
Turmeric (Curcuma)
Thyme
Bay leaves
Similar spices like curry leaves

These are classified under Chapter 9 (coffee, tea, mate and spices) of the HSN.

You might also be interested in Coconut HSN Code & GST Rate - 0801.

Importance of Correct HSN Code Usage

Proper Invoicing

Correct HSN coding generates correct invoices and maintains GST compliance. It creates trust between customers and vendors by providing transparency for each and every transaction.

Accurate GST Filing

Correct filing of GST returns without mistakes If the correct HSN code is used. That minimizes your chances of receiving a notice or an audit from tax authorities, giving you more time and also effort.

Avoidance of Penalties

GST laws impose heavy penalties and interest charges on taxpayers for using the wrong HSN codes. Using the right classification allows businesses to sidestep unnecessary legal trouble.

Uninterrupted Input Tax Credit Claims

The matching of the HSN code of the product in the GST filing makes the input tax credits (ITC) easy to claim. It facilitates uninterrupted credit flow, further lowering the total tax burden borne by businessmen.

GST Rates for 0910 HSN Code Spices

Different spices under the 0910 HSN code attract different GST rates. Below is a detailed table for your quick reference:

Spice	HSN Code	GST Rate	Comments
Ginger (Fresh)	910	Exempt	No GST for fresh ginger
Ginger (Dried)	910	5%	GST applicable on dried ginger
Saffron	910	5%	Premium spice, taxed at 5%
Turmeric (Whole)	910	Exempt	No GST on fresh whole turmeric
Turmeric Powder	910	5%	Powdered form attracts GST
Thyme	910	5%	All forms covered under 5% GST
Bay Leaves	910	5%	Used in cooking, taxed at 5%
Curry Leaves	910	Exempt	Fresh curry leaves are exempt

Understanding GST Rates in Detail

Let’s look deeper into how GST rates apply to specific spices:

Ginger HSN Code and GST Rate

Ginger HSN Code: 0910
Fresh Ginger: Exempt from GST.
Dried Ginger: 5% GST applicable.

So, if you are dealing in raw ginger, then no GST is payable. But dried or processed, it attracts 5% GST. To avoid taxation issues, businesses need to classify their stock correctly.

Saffron HSN Code and GST Rate

Saffron HSN Code: 0910
GST Rate: 5%

Saffron, or “Kesar” in India, is a luxury spice used in everything from sweets to biryanis to Ayurveda. White or Natural Saffron – Also falls under the saffron hsn code classification attracting a flat 5% GST.

Turmeric Powder HSN Code and GST Rate

Turmeric Powder HSN Code: 0910
GST Rate: 5%

Whole turmeric (fresh) is exempt, while there is 5% GST on turmeric powder. So turmeric in powdered form, which is a common ingredient in cooking as well as in medicine, needs to be billed under GST.

Why Fresh and Dried Forms Matter

The GST regime makes a distinction between the fresh and dried or processed forms of the spices:

GST exempt: Fresh (fresh ginger, fresh turmeric, fresh curry leaves)

Dried/Processed: 5% GST (e.g. dried ginger/turmeric powder; dried thyme).

This accounting allows raw agricultural products to be kept affordable while taxing processed products or value-added items.

Stay GST-Compliant Effortlessly with Swipe

It is not complex to manage your GST rates and HSN codes for spices like saffron, ginger, turmeric, etc. All you need to do is download the Swipe app and within a few taps you will be creating your GST compliant invoices, tracking the tax rate and filing return. Our simple platform makes it easy for small businesses and traders to keep themselves ahead without the remorse of creating paperwork.

Join Swipe and make your GST journey smooth, accurate, and stress-free!

Conclusion

GST rates applicable for common spices in India where a major portion of spices including Ginger, saffron, turmeric, thyme, bay leaves and curry leaves are in a large quantity. And if you’re a wholesaler, retailer, or exporter, getting your billing processes and matches in line with the appropriate 0910 hsn code and GST rates will wage everything at ease and legality in your ventures. Stay informed and ensure you accurately classify your supplies as taxable or exempt to avoid penalties and maximise input tax credits.

So if you trade all spices, the time has come for you to reorganise your GST filings and ensure that your ginger to saffron is classified well!

FAQ

1. What is the 0910 HSN code?

Under GST, spices ginger, saffron, turmeric, thyme, bay leaves, and leaves are classified under 0910 HSN code. It prevents incorrect invoicing and non-compliance of GST for these goods.

2. What is the GST rate for ginger under the 0910 HSN code?

Fresh ginger is exempt, while in dried form it attracts a 5% GST rate. With invoicing, it’s crucial to differentiate between the fresh and dried versions.

3. Does GST apply GST to Turmeric powder?

Yes, the 0910 HSN code applies for turmeric powder, and that is taxed under 5% GST. However, raw whole turmeric is GST-free.

4. What is the importance of the right HSN code for businesses?

Appropriate collection of HSN code on classification results in appropriate invoicing & GST filing avoiding penalties & aiding in streamlined reclams of enter tax credits aiding businesses to stay compliant & efficient.

5 . Whether curry leaves are taxable under GST?

There is also no GST on fresh curry leaves. If they are dried or processed, different GST rates may apply depending on the product classification.

Featured Posts

The Impact of GST on Works Contracts

GST Rate & HSN Code 5703 for Tufted Carpets in India – Complete Guide

Cleaning Cloths: 6304 HSN Code GST Rate Guide

GST Rate & HSN Code for Dairy, Eggs, Honey & Animal Products (Chapter 4)

The mandatory mentioning of HSN Codes in GSTR-1

HSN Code 0703 for Onions, Shallots, Garlic, Leeks, and Other Alliaceous Vegetables with GST Rate

GST Rate & HSN Code for Knitted or Crocheted Fabrics (Chapter 60)

Learn about how a legal heir can cancel GST registration & Transfer ITC

Featured Posts

You might also like

Income Tax notices based on GSTR-2A? Know why

HSN code 5102 explained: GST rate on fine & coarse animal hair

GST on fees remitted to SEBI: Applicability explained