Spice and Seasoning Imports

Spice and seasoning imports classify under HTS Chapter 9 (mostly 0904-0910). Most spices low base duty (0-3%). Section 122 stacks. India, Vietnam, China, Indonesia dominant origins. FDA food facility registration required.

This guide covers U.S. import tariff and compliance for spices and seasonings.

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

Black pepper HTS 0904.11. Turmeric HTS 0910.30. Cinnamon HTS 0906. Cardamom HTS 0908.

Tariff stack and rates

Base 0-3% + Section 122 (15%). Effective 15-18%.

Country of origin considerations

India (turmeric, cardamom, pepper). Vietnam (pepper, cinnamon). Indonesia (nutmeg, cloves). China (cassia cinnamon, ginger).

Regulatory overlay

FDA food facility registration. Pesticide residue testing. Aflatoxin testing for some spices.

Mitigation opportunities

India sourcing (no Section 301). USMCA qualification on Mexican-blended seasonings.

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.