Barley for Distilling

Ungerminated barley grain selected for scotch whisky production, valued for its enzymatic properties during malting. It is imported under HTS 1003.90.40 as other barley not intended for immediate malting or sowing. Meets chapter notes as unmalted barley destined for further processing.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+25.0%25%
🇲🇽MexicoFreeFree
🇨🇦CanadaFreeFree
🇩🇪GermanyFreeFree
🇯🇵JapanFreeFree

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.

1005.90.40Higher: 35% vs 25%

If maize-barley blend for feed

Blends with maize shift to Chapter 1005 maize heading if predominant.

0713.90Lower: 10% vs 25%

If frozen immediately after harvest

Frozen barley grains classify under Chapter 7 as frozen vegetables or grains.

1107.10.00Higher: 35% vs 25%

If roasted for brewing adjuncts

Roasted barley becomes Chapter 11 malt extract or roasted grain products.

Not sure which classification is right?

Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.

Import Tips & Compliance

Specify end-use as distilling in commercial invoice to support duty claims and avoid seed barley scrutiny

Ensure varietal purity certificates, as distillers prefer two-row barley free from six-row contamination

Monitor protein content (9-11%) in documentation, as high levels may affect malting efficiency claims

Related Products under HTS 1003.90.40

Pearl Barley

Pearl barley is barley grain that has been hulled, polished, and pearled to remove the bran layer, resulting in a smooth, oval-shaped kernel used primarily in soups and stews. It falls under HTS 1003.90.40 as other barley that is not malt, seed for sowing, or hull-less varieties. This processing distinguishes it from unmilled barley but keeps it classified within the barley heading.

Hulled Barley

Hulled barley has the inedible outer hull removed but retains the bran layer, making it suitable for whole grain cooking and animal feed. Classified under HTS 1003.90.40 as other unmilled barley excluding seed or malt varieties. It remains in heading 1003 due to minimal processing that preserves the grain's natural state.

Two-Row Feed Barley

Two-row barley variety primarily imported for livestock feed, with lower protein content ideal for digestion. Falls under HTS 1003.90.40 as other barley excluding seed, malt, or hull-less types. Bulk shipment form confirms grain classification.

Organic Hulled Barley

Certified organic hulled barley grown without synthetic pesticides, retaining bran for health foods and baking. Classified in HTS 1003.90.40 as other barley; organic status tracked via statistical note for USDA NOP certification. Processing limited to hull removal.

Pot Barley

Pot barley is coarsely milled barley with partial bran removal, coarser than pearl barley, used in hearty dishes. It qualifies for HTS 1003.90.40 as other barley due to limited milling not reaching flour stage. Retains significant hull characteristics.

Scotch Whisky Barley

Premium two-row spring barley grown in Scotland for single malt production, imported unmalted. Under HTS 1003.90.40 as other barley; specific varietals like Concerto or Laureate. Excludes heading 1003.10 as not seed.