Dried California Bay Leaves from China

Dried leaves from the California bay laurel tree (Umbellularia californica), commonly used in culinary applications for flavoring soups and stews. Classified under HTS 0910.99.07.00 as bay leaves, specifically within the 'other' category for thyme and bay leaves under spices, due to their aromatic properties and use as a spice despite being from a different species than European bay.

Duty Rate — China → United States

10.7%

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

Verify botanical identity as bay leaves (Lauraceae family) via certificates of analysis to avoid misclassification as herbs

Ensure product is free from contaminants; provide phytosanitary certificates as spices are subject to FDA and USDA import alerts

Label accurately as 'bay leaves' without additives to prevent duty reclassification or penalties