Salted Watermelon Seeds
Shelled watermelon seeds preserved by salting and light toasting, popular in Asian snack markets for their nutty taste. Falls under HTS 2008.19.50.00 as specifically named 'watermelon seeds' prepared without added sugar.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Rate | Ch.99 Surcharges | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | 6.4% | +35.0% | 41.4% |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | 6.4% | +10.0% | 16.4% |
| 🇨🇦Canada | 6.4% | +10.0% | 16.4% |
| 🇩🇪Germany | 6.4% | +10.0% | 16.4% |
| 🇯🇵Japan | 6.4% | +10.0% | 16.4% |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If in-shell and raw
In-shell watermelon seeds without preparation are other seeds in Chapter 12, not preserved under Chapter 20.
If flavored with sugar
Peanuts prepared with sugar go to 2008.11; analogous sweet watermelon seeds might shift if sugar exceeds trace amounts.
If as flavored snack mixes
If heavily seasoned with spices beyond salt and sold as sauce/dip mixes, it becomes food preparations nesoi in Chapter 21.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Include processing certificates showing salt content and heat treatment to distinguish from raw seeds
• Ensure phytosanitary certificates from origin to clear USDA inspections for seed imports
• Avoid misdeclaration as 'nuts' which could trigger higher duties or different quotas
Related Products under HTS 2008.19.50.00
Roasted Watermelon Seeds
Shelled watermelon seeds that have been dry-roasted to enhance flavor and crunch, typically salted or lightly seasoned, and packaged for snacking. Classified under HTS 2008.19.50.00 as prepared watermelon seeds, distinct from raw seeds in 1209. This subheading covers watermelon seeds otherwise prepared or preserved.
Spicy Watermelon Seeds
Roasted watermelon seeds coated in chili and spice blend for a kicked-up snack, shelled and ready-to-eat. HTS 2008.19.50.00 applies to watermelon seeds preserved by roasting and seasoning, not mixed with other seeds.
Honey-Roasted Watermelon Seeds
Shelled watermelon seeds roasted with a honey glaze for subtle sweetness, packaged in retail bags. Specifically under 2008.19.50.00 as watermelon seeds, even with minor sweetening not dominating composition.
Unsalted Toasted Watermelon Seeds
Plain roasted watermelon seeds without salt or additives, shelled for direct consumption. Classed in HTS 2008.19.50.00 as prepared watermelon seeds via heat treatment.
Wasabi-Flavored Watermelon Seeds
Shelled watermelon seeds roasted and dusted with wasabi powder for a spicy, Japanese-inspired snack. HTS 2008.19.50.00 for flavored watermelon seeds preserved by roasting.
Barbecue Watermelon Seeds
Roasted shelled watermelon seeds seasoned with smoky BBQ powder, ready for retail sale. Specifically identified under 2008.19.50.00 as prepared watermelon seeds.