The Harmonized System Nomenclature (HS Nomenclature) is an international standardized numerical Customs clearance facility. It is used in the systematic classification of goods and services as they move along the international supply chain. The HS Nomenclature caters for this by providing a logical structure in which more than 5000 commodity groups are categorized into more than 1200 headings covered under a total of 96 Chapters. In turn, these Chapters are divided into 21 Sections. The System simplifies classification and clearance by assigning standardized number codes to all the tradable products. Assignment of HS Codes to these tradable goods facilitates their identification for Customs clearance purposes when internationally traded.

This Trade Brief discusses the functions and attributes of the HS Nomenclature, highlighting the worldwide importance to traders through the roles of Customs administrations, as well as providing an update on the uptake and implementation of the Harmonized System in Africa.

Readers are encouraged to quote and reproduce this material for educational, non-profit purposes, provided the source is acknowledged. All views and opinions expressed remain solely those of the authors and do not purport to reflect the views of tralac.