Seed Lac Granules

Seed lac consists of the encysted secretions of the lac insect (Kerria lacca) harvested from twigs in granular form, classified under HTS 1301.90.91.20 as a natural resin from seeds. It is primarily used in the production of shellac for varnishes, polishes, and adhesives.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+17.5%17.5%
🇲🇽MexicoFree+10.0%10%
🇨🇦CanadaFree+10.0%10%
🇩🇪GermanyFree+10.0%10%
🇯🇵JapanFree+10.0%10%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

1301.90.91Same rate: 17.5%

If not specifically seed lac but another unspecified natural gum-resin

Broader 'other' subcategory for lac-like products not precisely matching seed lac definition.

3208.10.00.00Higher: 38.7% vs 17.5%

If processed into shellac varnishes or polishes

Finished shellac-based paints and varnishes shift to Chapter 32 for derived lac products.

1302.19Lower: 10% vs 17.5%

If chemically modified or mixed with solvents as an extract

Vegetable saps and extracts in Heading 1302 cover processed versions beyond raw resins.

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Import Tips & Compliance

Verify purity and origin certification to confirm it's unprocessed seed lac, not stick lac (1301.90.91.10) or processed shellac

Provide insect residue analysis if required by customs to distinguish from synthetic resins

Ensure phytosanitary certificates for agricultural residue concerns during import