Refined Carrageenan USP Grade from Japan
Refined USP-grade carrageenan is a highly purified extract from red seaweed meeting United States Pharmacopeia standards for pharmaceutical and food use. It qualifies under HTS 1302.39.00.10 as carrageenan mucilage, as it is not a medicament (Heading 3003/3004) nor modified per exclusions. Used in capsules, suspensions, and controlled-release drug formulations.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• Include USP certificate and purity assay (>90% carrageenan) to prevent reclassification as a pharmaceutical under Chapter 30
• Ensure DMF (Drug Master File) if for pharma use, and align with FDA import alerts on seaweed contaminants
• Declare exact sulfate content, as high levels may trigger additional testing or duties under environmental regs