Specialty Tea Imports

Specialty tea imports classify under HTS 0902 (true tea) or 1211 (herbal tea / botanicals). Most tea is duty-free under MFN. Section 122 stacks. FDA food facility registration. Japanese matcha and Chinese green tea face specific quality and pesticide considerations.

This guide covers U.S. import tariff and compliance for specialty teas.

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

Green tea HTS 0902.10 (in immediate packings under 3kg). Black tea HTS 0902.30. Matcha HTS 0902.10. Herbal tea HTS 1211.

Tariff stack and rates

Base 0-7% + Section 122 (15% on non-USMCA).

Country of origin considerations

China (green, oolong), Japan (matcha, sencha), India (Darjeeling, Assam), Sri Lanka (Ceylon).

Regulatory overlay

FDA food facility registration. Pesticide residue (Japan matcha). Filth testing.

Mitigation opportunities

Direct sourcing from origin. USMCA qualification on Mexican-blended.

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.