Traditional Sakè from Japan
Traditional sakè is a fermented rice beverage made from polished rice, water, yeast, and koji mold, with alcohol content typically 15-20% ABV. Classified under HTS 2206.00.90.40 as an other fermented beverage, as it doesn't fit beer, wine, or spirits categories. It's pasteurized and filtered for clarity.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Include brewing records showing rice fermentation to distinguish from distilled spirits under 2208
• Test and document proof at 15.56°C for accurate proof liter duty calculation by CBP
• Ensure TTB COLA approval pre-import; common pitfall is confusing with Chinese rice wine (classified elsewhere)