Nicaraguan Criollo Cigar Binder Tobacco from Japan
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 — Japan → United States
10%
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
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