Safrole from Mexico
Safrole is a phenylpropanoid ether compound with methylenedioxy phenol functionality, historically used for root beer/sassafras flavor. Now strictly regulated, imports under HTS 2909.50.4050 as odoriferous ether-phenol for permitted industrial uses. DEA-watchlisted substance.
Duty Rate — Mexico → United States
14.8%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.5510%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 10% ad valorem on products of Mexico
Import Tips
• Obtain DEA import permit and end-user verification letter mandatory for safrole entries
• Invoice must specify permitted use (e.g
• 'fragrance research') excluding flavor applications
• Purity >98% required; mixtures reclassify under Chapter 38 or 33