Semi-Refined Carrageenan Flakes from China

Semi-refined carrageenan flakes, extracted from Kappaphycus seaweed, offer cost-effective thickening for meat processing and pet food. Classified in HTS 1302.39.00.10 as carrageenan-derived vegetable thickener, distinct from fully refined grades but still unmodified per chapter definitions. Flake form facilitates easier dissolution in water-based systems.

Duty Rate — China → United States

20.7%

Rate breakdown

9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
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)

Import Tips

Document filtration level (e.g

cellulose content <10%) to confirm semi-refined status and avoid Chapter 35 starch classification

Test for iodine value and gel strength to meet importer specs and prevent quality-based rejections

Use ventilated containers to prevent mold during ocean transit, common with higher-moisture semi-refined products