Dried Kombu Kelp
Dried kombu kelp (Laminaria japonica) is a thick, leathery brown alga sold whole or in sheets, used to make dashi broth in Japanese cooking. It is classified under tariff item 1212.99.00 as other algae for human consumption, not elsewhere specified.
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 |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the kombu is sold fresh or frozen
Subheading 1212.21 covers seaweeds fit for human consumption in fresh, chilled, or frozen forms.
If the kombu is prepared or preserved (e.g., seasoned or boiled)
Prepared seaweed products fall under Chapter 20.
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
• Ensure the kombu is dried and not seasoned or cooked, as further preparation may shift classification
• Verify the product is for human consumption, not animal feed, to avoid heading 23.08
• Keep the packaging label showing the botanical name for CBSA verification
Related Products under Tariff item 1212.99.00
Apricot Stone Powder Organic
Apricot stone powder organic is an organic-certified powder from ground apricot stones, used in health foods, smoothies, and as a gluten-free flour alternative. It falls under tariff item 1212.99.00 as fruit stones and kernels, whether or not ground, of a kind used primarily for human consumption.
Dried Apricot Kernels
Dried apricot kernels are dried kernels extracted from apricot stones, used in baking, confectionery, and as a snack or ingredient in almond-like products. They are classified under tariff item 1212.99.00 as fruit kernels of a kind used primarily for human consumption, not elsewhere specified.
Dried Arame Seaweed
Dried arame seaweed is shredded and dried brown kelp used in salads, soups, and stir-fries for its mild flavor and nutrients. It is classified under tariff item 1212.99.00 as seaweeds and other algae of a kind used primarily for human consumption, not elsewhere specified.
Dried Bladderwrack Kelp
Dried bladderwrack kelp is dried brown seaweed used in herbal teas, supplements, and traditional medicine for iodine content. It falls under tariff item 1212.99.00 as seaweeds and other algae of a kind used primarily for human consumption, not elsewhere specified.
Dried Chlorella Algae
Dried chlorella algae is a single-cell green algae dried whole or cracked for detox supplements and food additive use in human diets. It is classified under tariff item 1212.99.00 as other algae of a kind used primarily for human consumption, not elsewhere specified.
Dried Dulse Seaweed
Dried dulse seaweed (Palmaria palmata) is a red alga processed into flakes or whole fronds, commonly used as a snack or seasoning in soups and salads. It is classified under tariff item 1212.99.00 as other algae of a kind used primarily for human consumption, not elsewhere specified or included.