HS Code for Cocoa Beans
The HS Code for cocoa beans is 180100. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is Free.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 180100 |
|---|---|
| US HTS (10-digit) | 1801000000 |
| EU CN Code (8-digit) | 18010000 |
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | Free |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 0% |
| Chapter | 18 |
| Heading | 1801 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Cocoa beans, whole or broken, raw or roasted
HS Code 180100 covers whole or broken cocoa beans, raw or roasted, with a US MFN duty rate of Free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific duty rates and additional fees for importing raw cocoa beans under HTS 180100?
Imported raw cocoa beans (HTS 180100) are generally duty-free in the United States, but you must still pay the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), which is 0.3464% of the entered value (minimum $31.67, maximum $634.62 per shipment). For most shipments, you will also be responsible for a Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) of 0.125% of the cargo's value if arriving by vessel.
Are there any specific phytosanitary or food safety compliance documents required for importing raw cocoa beans under HTS 180100 into the United States?
Yes, raw cocoa beans typically require a phytosanitary certificate from the country of origin, issued by the national plant protection organization, confirming they are free from regulated pests. Shipments are also subject to FDA regulations and may be inspected upon arrival for compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) to ensure they are not adulterated.
What are the specific packaging requirements for shipping cocoa beans in bulk ocean containers to prevent spoilage?
Cocoa beans must be shipped in clean, dry, and sound multi-wall paper bags, jute bags, or bulk containers that are free from odor and contamination. For bulk shipments, proper ventilation and the use of desiccants or hermetic liners are often required to control moisture and prevent mold growth, which is a key cause of customs rejection. The International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) recommends maintaining bean moisture content below 7.5% during transit.
Seasonal Import Trends for Cocoa Beans (1801.00)
Cocoa bean imports exhibit strong seasonal patterns tied to harvest cycles in major producing countries. Primary harvests from West Africa (Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana) typically peak from October to March, leading to highest U.S. import volumes in the first and fourth quarters. A smaller mid-crop harvest from April to September results in lower, but steady, import volumes during the summer months. This seasonality can affect shipping rates and port congestion, particularly at major entry points like the Port of Newark. Importers often build inventory ahead of the second-quarter low-supply period.
Compliance Notes for Cocoa Beans (1801.00)
Cocoa beans classified under 1801.00 are generally duty-free for U.S. imports, but must comply with FDA regulations for food safety, including potential pesticide residue limits and absence of filth or mold. They are also subject to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) regulations to prevent the introduction of plant pests; an import permit may be required for certain origins. The beans must be declared with their country of origin and may be subject to inspection at the port of entry. For beans from countries where the Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force (FLETF) has issued a Withhold Release Order (WRO), such as Côte d'Ivoire in the past, importers must provide documentation proving the goods were not produced with forced labor.
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