Fire-Cured Virginia Tobacco Stems from China
Midribs and stems separated from Virginia fire-cured tobacco leaves during threshing, classified as tobacco refuse under HTS 2401.30.70.50. This byproduct retains the characteristic smoky aroma from fire-curing and is often exported for reconstitution or blending. It must be unmanufactured and not suitable for direct retail sale.
Duty Rate — China → United States
387.5%
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
• Include processing affidavits proving stems are byproduct refuse, not intentionally stripped for sale
• Monitor annual quotas per U.S
• Note; Brazil (80,200 MT) has high limits but requires origin proof
• Avoid packaging resembling retail to prevent duty-free Chapter 98 sample treatment denial