White Fonio Grains
Whole, hulled white fonio grains (Digitaria exilis) harvested from West Africa, used as a gluten-free grain in porridges and salads. This product falls under tariff item 1008.40.00 as unmilled fonio, a specific cereal grain distinct from other millets, and is classified here despite being hulled, as Chapter Note 1(B) only excludes grains that are hulled or otherwise worked, but rice is an exception; however, fonio is not excluded.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the fonio is hulled and further processed, such as rolled or flaked
Worked grains may fall under processed cereals if not in the natural grain state.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Clarify the hulling process on customs documents, as Chapter Note 1(B) excludes hulled grains, but fonio may still be classified here if not further worked
• Verify with CBSA if hulled fonio is acceptable under this tariff item
• Ensure the product is not milled or processed into flour to maintain classification
Related Products under Tariff item 1008.40.00
Black Fonio Seeds
Unhulled black fonio seeds (Digitaria iburua), a nutrient-dense variety popular in Nigerian cuisine for its earthy flavor in couscous-like dishes. This product falls under tariff item 1008.40.00 as pure fonio, separate from other millet types, and is classified in this heading only if grains are present, as per Chapter Note 1(A).
Bulk Fonio Cargo
Large shipment of unmilled fonio grains in 50kg bags for wholesale to food processors. This product directly matches tariff item 1008.40.00 for pure fonio (Digitaria spp.) in bulk cereal trade, and is classified here as grains are present and not hulled or otherwise worked.
Fonio for Sprouting
Clean, viable fonio seeds selected for high germination rates in microgreen production or home sprouting kits. This raw cereal form of Digitaria spp. falls under tariff item 1008.40.00, as it is not hulled or otherwise worked, and Chapter Note 1(B) does not exclude it since it is not processed beyond the grain state.
Organic White Fonio
Certified organic white fonio grains grown without synthetic pesticides, ideal for health food markets in salads and baking. This unmilled cereal is covered by tariff item 1008.40.00 as specified for Digitaria species, and is classified here as grains are present and not worked beyond the natural state.