Vodka Base Syrup Concentrate from China

A high-alcohol syrup concentrate containing over 50% alcohol by weight, primarily neutral spirits flavored with subtle fruit essences, used by beverage manufacturers to produce flavored vodkas. It falls under HTS 2106.90.18.00 as a compound alcoholic preparation for beverage production, not classified as distilled spirits in Chapter 22 due to its syrupy additive composition.

Duty Rate — China → United States

19.4%

Rate breakdown

9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
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)

Import Tips

Verify alcohol content certification from supplier to confirm >50% by weight for proper classification under 2106.90.18.00

Include end-use statement specifying beverage manufacturing to prevent reclassification as retail spirits under Chapter 22

Watch for TTB labeling requirements even on imports for further processing; common pitfall is incomplete proof-of-use documentation