Import duty on sea salt in the UK

HS code

2501.00

UK codes

UK import duty

UK VAT

20%

Source: UK Global Tariff (HMRC Trade Tariff service) · checked 2026-10-31

Salt of all kinds, including sea salt and Himalayan pink salt, is 2501.00.

UK commodity codes under 2501.00

UK commodity code	Description	Import duty	VAT
2501 00 10 00	Sea water and salt liquors	0%	20%
2501 00 31 00	Salt (including table salt and denatured salt) and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents › For chemical transformation (separation of na from cl) for the manufacture of other products	0%	20%or 0% (VAT zero rate)
2501 00 51	Salt (including table salt and denatured salt) and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents › Other › Denatured or for industrial uses (including refining) other than the preservation or preparation of foodstuffs for human or animal consumption 2 full 10-digit codes 2501 00 51 10 — Salt (including table salt and denatured salt) and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents › Other › Denatured or for industrial uses (including refining) other than the preservation or preparation of foodstuffs for human or animal consumption › Denatured 2501 00 51 90 — Salt (including table salt and denatured salt) and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents › Other › Denatured or for industrial uses (including refining) other than the preservation or preparation of foodstuffs for human or animal consumption › For industrial uses (including refining) other than the preservation or preparation of foodstuffs for human or animal consumption	0%	20%or 0% (VAT zero rate)
2501 00 91 00	Salt (including table salt and denatured salt) and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents › Other › Other › Salt suitable for human consumption	0%	20%or 0% (VAT zero rate)
2501 00 99 00	Salt (including table salt and denatured salt) and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents › Other › Other › Other	0%	20%or 0% (VAT zero rate)

Import duty on sea salt by country

Import into the US

Free

See HTS codes ›

Import into the UK

You are here

Import into the EU

Varies by line

See CN codes ›

How UK import charges work

The duty shown is the standard rate for goods from countries without a trade deal. Goods from a country with a UK trade agreement may pay less, or nothing, if they meet the rules of origin. A few products from certain countries also pay anti-dumping duties. The UK charges import VAT on the customs value plus shipping, insurance and duty.

What will sea salt really cost you?

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Sellers of sea salt also look up

Related products and their UK import duty.

HS 0712.39

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UK duty: 12%

HS 2209.00

Vinegar

UK duty: Varies by line

HS 1101.00

Wheat flour

UK duty: £143 / 1,000 kg

HS 2208.30

Whiskey

UK duty: 0%

HS 0406.90

Cheese

UK duty: Varies by line

HS 2203.00

Beer

UK duty: 0%

Frequently asked questions

Q1What is the UK commodity code for sea salt?

It depends on the product’s details: 5 UK codes sit under HS 2501.00. The table on this page lists each one with its duty.

Q2What is the import duty on sea salt in the UK?

Between 0%, depending on the exact code. Goods from countries with a trade agreement may pay less if they meet the rules of origin.

Q3Do I pay VAT on imported sea salt?

Yes. Import VAT of 20% applies on top of duty. The UK charges import VAT on the customs value plus shipping, insurance and duty.

Q4Is the UK code the same as the US HTS code?

Only the first 6 digits (2501.00) are the same. The US adds its own digits and rates: see the US HTS code for sea salt.

Find another product’s UK duty

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New to customs terms? Read what an HS code is and our guide on how to calculate landed cost.

Classification guidance only, not a binding ruling or customs advice. The right code depends on your product’s exact material, function and construction. For certainty, get an Advance Tariff Ruling from HMRC, or ask a licensed customs broker.