Cocoa Butter Substitute Spread
A non-chocolate spread made with vegetable fats flavored with cocoa powder, used as a butter alternative in baking. It falls under HTS 1806.90.90.90 as a food preparation containing cocoa that doesn't fit into more specific chocolate or confection categories within Chapter 18.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Rate | Ch.99 Surcharges | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | 6% | +20.0% | 26% |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | 6% | +10.0% | 16% |
| 🇨🇦Canada | 6% | +10.0% | 16% |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | +10.0% | 10% |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | +12.5% | 12.5% |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If containing over 5.5% butterfat and qualifying as chocolate crumb
Higher butterfat content shifts it to unsweetened chocolate preparations under 1806.20.
If cocoa content is minimal and primarily a flavored spread
Low cocoa preparations may classify as general food preparations in Chapter 21.
If vegetable fat-based without significant cocoa flavoring
Pure vegetable fat spreads without cocoa fall under Chapter 15 oils and fats.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify cocoa content via lab analysis to confirm classification outside primary chocolate headings
• Include detailed ingredient lists and nutritional labeling compliant with FDA standards
• Avoid misclassification as confectionery by ensuring it's not marketed for retail candy consumption
Related Products under HTS 1806.90.90.90
Cocoa Powder Hot Chocolate Mix
An instant powdered mix of cocoa, sugar, and milk solids for preparing hot beverages, not qualifying as retail candy. Classified in HTS 1806.90.90.90 as other food preparations containing cocoa beyond standard chocolate blocks or bars.
Cocoa Nib Energy Bar Base
Bulk mix of roasted cocoa nibs, nuts, and binders for manufacturing energy bars, containing cocoa but not finished confectionery. It is categorized under HTS 1806.90.90.90 for other cocoa-containing food preparations.
Cocoa-Infused Baking Emulsifier
An emulsifier blend with cocoa lecithin and fats for bakery use, functioning as a food preparation containing cocoa. Falls under HTS 1806.90.90.90 as it doesn't match more specific chocolate or powdered cocoa categories.
Cocoa-Flavored Protein Powder Blend
Protein supplement powder flavored with cocoa powder and whey, marketed for shakes not as candy. Classified in HTS 1806.90.90.90 for other food preparations containing cocoa outside confection headings.
Cocoa Shell Tea Blend
Herbal tea infusion using cocoa shells mixed with herbs, containing cocoa components for beverage preparation. It qualifies under HTS 1806.90.90.90 as an other food preparation with cocoa.
Cocoa Massage Cream Base
Emollient cream base infused with cocoa butter for cosmetic massage products, containing cocoa but prepared as a food-grade prep. Falls into HTS 1806.90.90.90 for other cocoa food preparations.