Bulk Shelled Kola Nuts for Traditional Ceremonial Use from China
Bulk shelled kola nuts are dried, husk-removed seeds packaged in large quantities under HTS 0802.70.2000 for cultural and ceremonial chewing in West African traditions. These nuts are selected for size and bitterness, remaining in whole form post-shelling. Import focuses on cultural markets rather than industrial processing.
Duty Rate — China → United States
7.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.88.157.5%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.39, 9903.88.42, 9903.88.44, 9903.88.47, 9903.88.49, 9903.88.51, 9903.88.53, 9903.88.55, 9903.88.57, 9903.88.65, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(r) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(s)
9903.03.030%Articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa)(ii) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Use food-grade bulk bags (jute or PP) with ventilation to prevent fermentation; declare weight net of shells
• Cultural use declarations may qualify for lower duties in some FTAs—check country-specific rules
• Inspect for insect damage; CBP often samples kola shipments for quarantine pests