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September 4, 2025

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GST Rates & HSN Code 9093 for Cumin & Black Cumin – A Complete Guide

Spice production, along with export, makes India one of the leading countries in this sector, which maintains an intricate yet organized framework for taxing agricultural products. Two of the most frequently exported spices belong to the specific Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) code.

The forthcoming comprehensive analysis of HSN Code 9093 will explain GST rates for cumin together with black cumin and their effects on traders and exporters within the spice market.

What is HSN Code 9093?

The HSN Code 9093 entered the Indian Customs Tariff structure and Goods and Services Tax system as a newly established classification. This code specifically deals with:

Cumin seeds (Jeera)

The classification of the seeds from the Nigella plant (Kala Jeera and Nigella seeds)

The classification of HSN 9093 occurs within Chapter 9 of the Indian Customs Tariff Act, which includes Coffee, Tea, Mate, along with Spices.

Before its HSN 9093 status, cumin seeds and black cumin seeds fell under HSN 0909, but the code also contained other seeds such as caraway seeds and fennel seeds as well as juniper berries. To achieve better classification and taxation in trade documentation, the government designed 9093.

Why is HSN Code 9093 Important?

There are multiple important reasons behind understanding HSN Code 9093:

Accurate GST filing: Using the correct HSN code for GST filing enables taxpayers to have accurate tax clearance and Input Tax Credit (ITC) benefit processing.

Avoidance of penalties: Inaccurate use of HSN code 9093 might lead to tax authority penalties, but also generates possible financial consequences.

Global trade compliance: Accurate HSN code 9093 classification stands critical in export-import operations for international customs clearance and trade regulations.

Pricing strategy: Businesses can establish competitive prices through proper tax rate comprehension when creating their pricing strategies.

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GST Rate on Cumin and Black Cumin (HSN Code 9093)

As of the latest GST Council notifications (as of 2024-2025):

GST Rate for HSN Code 9093: 5%

Both cumin seeds and black cumin seeds attract a GST of 5% under the Goods and Services Tax system.

GST Notification Reference:

The GST rules for Cumin and Black Cumin are specified in Notification No. 1/2017-Central Tax (Rate) dated 28th June 2017 and further complemented by the GST Council updates:

The taxation rate for HSN 9093 products (Cumin and Black Cumin) stands at 5% GST irrespective of packing status or loose sale unless specified otherwise.

Understanding the Breakdown of GST for Cumin & Black Cumin

Product	HSN Code	GST Rate	Input Tax Credit (ITC) Available?
Cumin (Jeera)	9093	5%	Yes
Black Cumin (Kala Jeera)	9093	5%	Yes

Example:

If you are selling 1 kg of cumin for ₹200, the GST applicable would be:

₹200 x 5% = ₹10 GST
Total Price = ₹210 (inclusive of GST)

Cumin vs. Black Cumin – Know the Difference

The HSN code application applies to cumin and black cumin; nevertheless, their unique characteristics need separate examination for trading operations together with packaging and promotional strategies.

Parameter	Cumin (Jeera)	Black Cumin (Kala Jeera/Nigella)
Scientific Name	Cuminum cyminum	Nigella sativa or Bunium persicum
Flavour Profile	Earthy, nutty	Smoky, bitter, slightly peppery
Usage	Indian curries, pickles	Biryani, Ayurvedic medicine
Market Value	Moderate	Higher, due to medicinal value
Export Demand	High	Niche but premium markets

Input Tax Credit (ITC) for Traders & Exporters

One of the key benefits under the GST regime is the Input Tax Credit (ITC). As a registered business dealing with cumin or black cumin:

You can claim ITC on any GST paid on purchases related to packaging, logistics, transport, and raw material procurement.

This helps reduce your net tax liability and improves cash flow.

Pro Tip:

Ensure your suppliers mention HSN Code 9093 on their invoices. Consistency in classification is essential to claim ITC without disputes.

LEARN: How to claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) under GST

GST Exemption Possibilities

While most cumin and black cumin trade attracts 5% GST, there are scenarios where GST exemptions may apply:

1. Unbranded & Loose Sale:

If cumin or black cumin is sold loose and unbranded, it may fall under the exempted category as per earlier GST circulars.

This is especially true for small-scale farmers or local mandi traders.

2. Direct Agricultural Sale:

Sale of produce directly by farmers to end consumers, without branding or packaging, may also be exempt.

Always consult with a tax advisor or check the latest CBIC updates to confirm exemptions for your specific trade scenario.

Exporting Cumin & Black Cumin – GST Implications

India stands among the leading countries exporting both cumin and black cumin products. The GST system brings substantial advantages to exporters.

Zero-Rated Supply:

The GST system officially classifies exported goods as zero-rated supplies.

The tax authority does not collect GST from export invoices but allows exporters to obtain refunds for GST payments on their inputs.

LUT Filing:

Exporters have the option to use a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) as a way to ship their products beyond borders while skipping GST payments.

Alternatively, they can pay GST and claim a refund later.

Required Documents for Export:

LUT/Acknowledgement

Invoice with HSN Code 9093

Shipping bill

E-way bill (if applicable)

Bank Realization Certificate (BRC)

Packaging and Labelling Requirements under HSN 9093

When trading cumin or black cumin under HSN 9093, ensure compliance with:

FSSAI labelling standards

Mention of HSN Code 9093 on invoice

Proper packaging date, batch number, weight, and MRP

Branding, if any, must be consistent across packaging and billing

Note: Improper or misleading labels may disqualify your GST claims and may invite fines.

How to Add HSN Code 9093 in Your GST Returns

For Businesses Using GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B:

While filing GSTR-1 (Sales Return), mention the HSN Code 9093 under the item details.

The system auto-picks the 5% tax rate, but verify it to avoid errors.

In GSTR-3B, include the taxable value and GST collected under Outward Supplies at 5%.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with HSN Code 9093

Using outdated HSN codes (like 0909)

Not mentioning the HSN code in invoices (especially above the threshold turnover)

Incorrectly assuming exemptions for branded items

Filing GST returns with mismatched codes between GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B

Overlooking ITC eligibility on inputs used in spice processing

Conclusion

The knowledge of HSN Code 9093 together with the 5% tax rate for cumin and black cumin applies directly to all spice traders operating in India. Compliance with classification practices combined with proper documentation and tax filing enables you to take advantage of ITC and export refund schemes while ensuring compliance.

Every spice trader, from small to large entities, should implement the GST framework to achieve better profitability and industry growth in the highly competitive spice market.

Ready to simplify GST compliance for your spice trade? Stay ahead of the curve with the Billing Software for Grocery Store Businesses.

FAQs

Q1. Is HSN Code 9093 applicable to both whole and powdered cumin?

Whole seeds of cumin as well as cumin powder fall under the HSN 9093 regulation until they unite with other spices.

Q2. What is the GST rate for unbranded cumin seeds sold by farmers?

The taxation laws of GST will not impose duties on unbranded or loose cumin when farmers and cooperative groups sell it. Taxation under the Goods and Services Tax levies 5% on branded as well as packaged forms of products.

Q3. Can exporters of cumin and black cumin claim GST refund?

Yes. Exporters can claim refunds on GST paid on inputs or opt for LUT to export without tax.

Q4. Is ITC available on packaging materials for cumin exports?

Yes, input credit is available on packaging materials, provided the inputs are used in the course of business and proper documentation is maintained.

‍5. Is ITC available on the packaging and transport of cumin for GST-registered businesses?

Absolutely. Input Tax Credit (ITC) is allowed on packaging materials, transport charges, and other inputs related to cumin trading, provided the GST invoices are properly documented.

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