Raw Fermented Cocoa Beans from China

Whole, fermented cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao) harvested and dried but not roasted, used primarily for chocolate production. Classified under HTS 1801.00.00 as raw cocoa beans, whole or broken, raw or roasted, encompassing unprocessed beans in their natural fermented state.

Duty Rate — China → United States

7.5%

Rate breakdown

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)
9903.03.030%Articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa)(ii) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter

Import Tips

Verify fermentation status and origin via phytosanitary certificates to avoid reclassification as processed goods

Ensure beans are free of contaminants; fumigation may be required under USDA APHIS rules for agricultural imports

Declare exact weight and moisture content to prevent disputes over 'raw' status versus roasted