Powdered Agar-Agar from Japan
Powdered agar-agar is a gelatinous substance extracted from red algae, primarily Gelidium and Gracilaria species, used as a thickening agent in food applications. It falls under HTS 1302.31.00.00 as it is unmodified agar-agar derived from vegetable (algal) products, serving as a mucilage and thickener. This classification excludes modified versions or those used in medicaments.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Verify purity and origin certificates to confirm it is unmodified agar-agar from red algae, avoiding reclassification as a modified thickener
• Ensure food-grade labeling and compliance with FDA import requirements for direct food additives