Locust Bean Gum
Locust bean gum is a natural gelling and thickening agent extracted from the seeds of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua), used in dairy, bakery, and pet foods. It qualifies for tariff item 1302.39.00 as a vegetable-derived mucilage, unmodified and not excluded by the chapter's legal notes.
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 product is specifically derived from locust beans and is a mucilage or thickener
This subheading covers mucilages and thickeners from locust beans, which is more specific than the 'other' item.
If the gum is sold as part of a food preparation mix
Compound food preparations may fall under Chapter 21 when the gum is not the sole ingredient.
If the gum is chemically modified for use as a starch derivative
Modified vegetable gums may be classified under dextrins and other modified starches.
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 gum is not blended with sugars or other additives, as that may move it to food preparation headings
• Provide documentation that the product is derived from carob seeds and is not a modified gum
• Verify the binder content, if agglomerated, does not exceed 3% by weight
Related Products under Tariff item 1302.39.00
Agar-Agar Powder
Agar-agar powder is a gelatinous substance extracted from red seaweed (Gelidium and Gracilaria species), commonly used as a vegetarian gelling agent in microbiology, desserts, and confectionery. It is a mucilage derived from vegetable products, falling under tariff item 1302.39.00 as an 'other' mucilage or thickener.
Burdock Root Mucilage
Burdock root mucilage from Arctium lappa soothes digestive products and skin creams. It is a traditional Asian thickener, classified under tariff item 1302.39.00 as an 'other' vegetable mucilage.
Carrageenan Powder Kappa Type
Kappa carrageenan is a natural polysaccharide extracted from red seaweed (Eucheuma cottonii), used primarily as a gelling and thickening agent in food products. It falls under tariff item 1302.39.00 as a mucilage and thickener derived from vegetable products.
Cassia Gum Powder
Cassia gum powder is a natural thickener extracted from Cassia tora seeds, used in pet foods, canned meats, and cheese products for water-binding. It is a vegetable-derived mucilage, classified under tariff item 1302.39.00 as an 'other' thickener.
Chia Seed Mucilage Powder
Chia seed mucilage powder from Salvia hispanica gels rapidly for puddings and sports drinks. It is a superfood thickener, classified under tariff item 1302.39.00 as an 'other' vegetable mucilage.
Flaxseed Mucilage Extract
Flaxseed mucilage extract is a soluble fiber-rich substance derived from the seeds of Linum usitatissimum, used as a vegan egg replacer and thickener in smoothies and bakery products. It falls under tariff item 1302.39.00 as a vegetable-derived mucilage or thickener, unmodified and not excluded by chapter notes.