Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
This rate follows a special calculation or is subject to specific conditions.
What HTS 0902 Covers
Heading 0902 covers tea from the Camellia sinensis plant, whether or not flavored. It splits between green (unfermented) tea and black (fermented) or partly fermented tea such as oolong, and further by immediate packing size, with a 3 kg threshold separating retail-style packs from bulk.
Notes for Importers
Flavored true teas, like jasmine green tea or Earl Grey, stay in 0902 as long as the tea character is retained. Herbal infusions with no Camellia sinensis, such as chamomile or rooibos, are not tea for HTS purposes and classify elsewhere, typically heading 1211 or 2106. Ready-to-drink bottled tea and instant tea preparations also leave this heading for Chapter 21 or 22.
Product Category
Vegetable Products
This chapter includes cereals, flour, malt, edible vegetables, edible fruit, coffee, tea, spices, and related plant-based food products.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 0902 |
| Description | Tea, whether or not flavored: |
| Chapter | 9 - Vegetable Products |
| General Duty Rate | |
| Rate Type | Other |
| Special Rates | |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do herbal teas classify under heading 0902?
No. Heading 0902 covers only tea from the Camellia sinensis plant. Pure herbal infusions like chamomile, peppermint or rooibos classify elsewhere, commonly in heading 1211 or as food preparations in 2106.
Does flavored tea like Earl Grey stay in 0902?
Yes. The heading text says whether or not flavored, so teas scented or flavored with bergamot, jasmine, fruit pieces or spices remain in 0902 provided the product is still essentially tea.
How does packaging affect classification within 0902?
The subheadings distinguish tea in immediate packings of 3 kg or less from bulk tea over 3 kg, in addition to the green versus black split. Tea bags and retail tins fall on the small-pack side; bulk chests and sacks on the other.
What is the HTS code 0902 used for?
HTS code 0902 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Tea, whether or not flavored:. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 0902?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 0902?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Vegetable Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 0902?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 0902 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.