Honey Mead from China
Honey mead is an ancient fermented beverage made from honey, water, and yeast, often with added fruits or spices, achieving 8-18% ABV. It qualifies for HTS 2206.00.90.40 as an other fermented beverage not specified elsewhere in Chapter 22. Varieties include still and sparkling types.
Duty Rate — China → United States
37.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.88.0325%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.13, 9903.88.18, 9903.88.33, 9903.88.34, 9903.88.35, 9903.88.36, 9903.88.37, 9903.88.38, 9903.88.40, 9903.88.41, 9903.88.43, 9903.88.45, 9903.88.46, 9903.88.48, 9903.88.56, 9903.88.64, 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(e) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(f)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Submit lab reports confirming honey fermentation base to avoid spirits reclassification
• Calculate duties on proof liter basis; adjust for actual proof vs. 100 proof standard