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15099000
ANIMAL, VEGETABLE OR MICROBIAL FATS AND OILS AND THEIR CLEAVAGE PRODUCTS; PREPARED EDIBLE FATS; ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE WAXESOlive oil and its fractions, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified

Other

Classification of other olive oils

CN code 150990 covers other olive oils and their fractions not specified in subheadings 150910, 150920, and 150930. In trade practice, this heading may cover olive oil fractions obtained through physical processes and olive oils with atypical quality parameters. Classification under this code requires exclusion of the goods from other, more specific subheadings within heading 1509. Chemical analysis covering acidity, peroxide value, sterol profile, and fatty acid profile is essential for correct classification. Olive oils under this code must meet the general requirements of Chapter 15 of the Combined Nomenclature, including the condition that they are not chemically modified. Chemically modified products are classified under heading 1516.

Quality requirements and marketing standards

Olive oils classified under 150990 are subject to marketing standards set by Regulation (EU) No 29/2012 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/2104. Each product must meet the chemical and sensory criteria appropriate for its category. Imports from third countries must comply with International Olive Council standards. Labelling must include correct commercial category designation, olive origin, best-before date, and nutritional information. Adulteration remains a significant trade risk – control authorities employ advanced analytical methods to detect irregularities. Producers and importers should maintain a traceability system enabling olive oil tracking from plantation to consumer.

Practical import guidance for 2026

Importers of olive oils under CN 150990 should ensure complete trade documentation including chemical and sensory analysis certificates, certificates of origin, and transport documents. The customs declaration must precisely indicate the CN code and commercial category of the product. It is advisable to check tariff rate quota availability in the TARIC system for the country of origin. Olive oil transport requires particular protection against quality degradation – exposure to light, heat, and oxygen causes oxidation and reduces sensory value. Transport containers must be clean, dry, and made of food-contact approved materials. In 2026, customs authorities may require additional documentation confirming the authenticity of olive oil imported from regions with elevated adulteration risk.

Extra virgin olive oil import under CN 1509 90

Extra virgin olive oil under CN 1509 90 is the highest quality category, requiring acidity below 0.8% and absence of sensory defects. The conventional duty is EUR 124.5 per 100 kg. EU marketing standards under Regulation (EU) No 29/2012 set strict physicochemical and organoleptic criteria. Laboratory testing at import verifies compliance. TRQs under agreements with Tunisia and Turkey provide reduced-rate access.

Frequently asked questions

What products are classified under CN code 150990?
Code 150990 covers other olive oils and fractions not included in codes 150910 (virgin oil), 150920 (refined oil), and 150930 (blends). In practice, it may include olive oil fractions obtained through physical processes and olive oils with atypical quality parameters.
Is lampante olive oil classified under code 150990?
Lampante olive oil, a virgin oil with acidity exceeding permissible standards and unsuitable for direct consumption, is classified under heading 1509 with the appropriate subheading. Lampante oil intended for refining is subject to specific documentary requirements upon import into the EU.
What analytical methods are used for olive oil control?
Quality and authenticity controls use acidity analysis, peroxide value, UV absorbance, sterol profiling, fatty acid profiling, wax content, stigmastadiene, and sensory evaluation by panel test. Advanced methods include isotope analysis and NMR spectroscopy.
What quality parameters must extra virgin olive oil CN 1509 90 meet?
Extra virgin olive oil CN 1509 90 must have free acidity below 0.8%, peroxide value under 20 meq O2/kg, and pass organoleptic testing with no sensory defects. These parameters are verified at EU border inspection posts.