Fresh Malabar Spinach from Japan
Fresh Malabar spinach (Basella alba), a vining garden spinach alternative with thick, mucilaginous leaves, is included as 'other' under HTS 0709.70.00.50 when fresh or chilled. Used in Asian cuisines for its unique texture.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
20%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.480%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate ≥ 12.5 percent): MFN >= 12.5% → no additional duty
Import Tips
• Confirm botanical identity; sometimes confused with true spinach requiring specific inspection
• High moisture content—pack in ventilated crates to prevent molding during sea freight
• FDA registration needed if processed minimally; pure fresh avoids this