Pure Cocoa Paste Slabs from Japan
Industrial slabs of cocoa paste made solely from ground cocoa nibs, each over 4.5 kg, for use in confectionery production. Classified under HTS 1806.20.20.10 because it is wholly ground cocoa beans without butterfat, milk solids, sugar, or other additives beyond minimal emulsifiers.
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
• Label shipments clearly as 'industrial cocoa paste, no milk solids' and include lab tests proving compliance with butterfat limits
• Avoid retail packaging; use bulk industrial containers to maintain bulk form classification over 2 kg
• Monitor EU or origin country certifications for pesticide residues, as cocoa imports face strict food safety scrutiny