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
110%
Rate breakdown
9903.04.6095.2%Except as provided in heading 9903.04.61, patented pharmaceutical articles as provided for in subdivisions (c) and (d) of U.S. note 40 to this subchapter
9903.05.5510%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92 and 9903.05.94, articles the product of Mexico, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
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