Honey Imports

Honey imports classify under HTS 0409 at low base duty (1.9 cents/kg). U.S. has active AD/CVD orders on honey from Argentina, Brazil, India, Ukraine, Vietnam (varies by origin). USDA pollen analysis verifies origin claims. Honey transshipment fraud is a major CBP enforcement focus.

This guide covers U.S. import tariff and compliance for honey.

For SMB importers in this category, the practical questions are HTS classification, applicable Section 232/301/122 stacks, FTA opportunities, and regulatory overlay (FDA/USDA/EPA/CPSC where relevant).

HTS classification basics

Honey HTS 0409.00. Specific subheadings by container size.

Tariff stack and rates

Base 1.9 cents/kg + Section 122 (15% on non-USMCA) + AD/CVD where applicable.

Country of origin considerations

Argentina, Brazil, India, Vietnam, Ukraine all face active AD/CVD orders. New Zealand (manuka), Mexico, Canada non-AD origins.

Regulatory overlay

FDA food facility registration. USDA APHIS for some shipments. Pollen analysis for origin verification.

Mitigation opportunities

Origin documentation airtight. Pollen analysis at independent lab. AD/CVD scope rulings for specific honey types.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical effective duty rate?

Depends on origin and HTS classification. China-origin: 22-42% effective when Section 301 + Section 122 stack. USMCA-qualifying Mexican production: often 0-3%. Vietnam, India, Korea: 15-17% with Section 122.

Can I qualify under USMCA?

Possible if production occurs in U.S., Mexico, or Canada and meets rules of origin (typically 60% RVC under transaction value or 50% net cost). USMCA-qualifying goods are exempt from Section 122.

Are IEEPA refunds available?

Yes – for entries between April 5, 2025 and February 24, 2026 that paid IEEPA duty. Filed through CBP’s CAPE portal. We file claims on contingency for filings above $50k.

What about Section 232 exposure?

Specific to product type. Steel and aluminum derivatives expansion brought some downstream products into scope. Component-level analysis identifies actual coverage.

How do you help with this category?

Tariff exposure assessment ($2,500-$7,500), classification audit, USMCA qualification, refund recovery, audit response. Independent of any customs brokerage.