Nicaraguan Criollo Cigar Binder Tobacco from China
Unstemmed Criollo tobacco leaves from Nicaragua, specifically selected for use as binder in premium cigar production. These leaves provide structural integrity to the cigar bunch without being used as the outermost wrapper. Classified under HTS 2401.10.53 as unmanufactured, not stemmed/stripped cigar binder tobacco not containing wrapper.
Duty Rate — China → United States
20%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.3112.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 52 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 origin country against U.S. tobacco import quotas (e.g
• Nicaragua under 'Other countries' limit); exceedance shifts to higher duty rates
• Provide certification that tobacco is solely for cigar binder/filler use, not wrapper, to avoid reclassification
• Ensure proper phytosanitary certificates and fumigation records to meet USDA APHIS import requirements for plant materials