Tapioca Pearls

Small, spherical beads made from cassava starch, dried and processed into pearls for use in bubble tea and desserts. Classified under HTS 1903.00.40.00 as tapioca substitutes prepared from starch in the form of pearls. Meets chapter notes for preparations beyond simple starch processing.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+7.5%7.5%
🇲🇽MexicoFreeFree
🇨🇦CanadaFreeFree
🇩🇪GermanyFreeFree
🇯🇵JapanFreeFree

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

1108.20.00.00Higher: 37.6% vs 7.5%

If minimally processed starch, not formed into pearls

Raw tapioca starch without forming into flakes, grains or pearls falls under heading 1108 for starches.

1903.00Same rate: 7.5%

If in flake form specifically

Tapioca flakes have a distinct subheading under 1903.00.10, while pearls are 'other' forms.

2106.90.99Higher: 13.9% vs 7.5%

If flavored or mixed with additives for retail

Flavored or prepared tapioca products may shift to food preparations in 2106 if beyond simple starch forming.

Not sure which classification is right?

Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.

Import Tips & Compliance

Verify starch origin and processing level to confirm 1903 classification; provide lab analysis for cassava content if challenged

Ensure food safety certifications like FDA prior notice

Watch for misclassification as raw starch (1108)