Honey Mead from China
A traditional fermented beverage made from honey, water, and yeast, often still or lightly effervescent, with ABV around 10-14%. It is classified in HTS 2206.00.15.20 as 'other' fermented beverages akin to cider, not specified elsewhere like sake. Mead fits as a non-grape, non-malt fermented drink.
Duty Rate — China → United States
17.5%
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
• Submit proof gall/test results at 15.56°C for duty; miscalculating high ABV proofs leads to audits
• Label as 'fermented honey beverage' not wine; provide hive origin if claiming special rates
• Avoid blending with spirits (reclassifies to 2208); document pure fermentation process