Shelled Kola Nuts (Cola nitida)
Shelled kola nuts from the Cola nitida species are the dried seeds of the kola tree with the outer husk removed, classified under HTS 0802.70.2000 as shelled kola nuts. These nuts are primarily used in traditional African beverages and as a natural source of caffeine. The shelling process makes them ready for processing or direct use while maintaining their fresh or dried state.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If unshelled or in shell
Kola nuts with intact outer shells fall under the unshelled subheading in the same 0802.70 heading.
If roasted, ground, or further processed beyond shelling
Once roasted or powdered for extract use, kola nuts become plants used in perfumery or pharmacy, shifting to Chapter 12.
If marketed as a prepared caffeine flavoring extract
Processed kola nuts resembling maté or similar prepared extracts move to Chapter 9 for tea and maté preparations.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify botanical identity through certificates of origin or lab analysis to confirm Cola spp. as misclassification to cashews (0801.32) is common
• Ensure nuts are truly shelled (husks fully removed) with photos/documentation; peeled but unshelled may require different reporting
• Check for pesticide residues meeting FDA import standards; provide phytosanitary certificates from exporting countries like Nigeria or Ghana
Related Products under HTS 0802.70.20.00
Shelled Kola Nuts (Cola acuminata)
Shelled kola nuts from Cola acuminata are large, dried seeds harvested from West African kola trees, with shells removed for easier processing under HTS 0802.70.2000. These nuts are valued for their high caffeine and theobromine content in ceremonial chewing and soft drink flavoring. Classification specifies shelled state, distinguishing from in-shell imports.
Dried Shelled Kola Nuts for Extract Production
Dried shelled kola nuts are processed by removing the hard outer shell and drying the seeds, imported under HTS 0802.70.2000 specifically for caffeine extract manufacturing. These nuts retain their natural shape and are not further ground or roasted at import. The shelled form facilitates industrial grinding for beverages like cola drinks.
Organic Shelled Kola Nuts
Certified organic shelled kola nuts are grown without synthetic pesticides, shelled, and dried, falling under HTS 0802.70.2000 as shelled kola nuts (see General Statistical Note 6 for organic standards). These premium nuts appeal to natural product markets for caffeine supplements. Organic certification must accompany import declarations.
Bulk Shelled Kola Nuts for Traditional Ceremonial Use
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.