HTS US: 1803.XX.XXXX
Description
Heading 1803 encompasses cocoa paste, a key intermediate product in chocolate manufacturing and other cocoa-based foods. Cocoa paste is produced by grinding cocoa nibs into a thick paste and may be either not defatted or wholly or partly defatted to reduce fat content (cocoa butter).
The classification distinguishes between these two states based on fat removal:
- Not defatted: Cocoa paste containing natural levels of cocoa butter, retaining its full fat content.
- Wholly or partly defatted: Cocoa paste with a reduced fat content due to partial or complete removal of cocoa butter.
Code Hierarchy
- Section IV: Prepared Foodstuffs; Beverages, Spirits and Vinegar; Tobacco (Chapters 16-24)
- Chapter 18: Cocoa and Cocoa Preparations
- Heading 1803: Cocoa paste, whether or not defatted
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
1803.XX.XXXX– The last digits specify the fat content status.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit heading 1803 is subdivided into specific 6-digit and 10-digit codes detailing if the cocoa paste is defatted or not:
| HS/HTS Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 1803.10.00.00 | Not defatted cocoa paste containing natural cocoa butter |
| 1803.20.00.00 | Wholly or partly defatted cocoa paste with reduced fat content |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To ensure proper classification, note the following exclusions from heading 1803:
- Cocoa beans: The raw, unprocessed seeds of the cacao tree are classified under Chapter 18, Heading 1801.
- Cocoa shells and husks: These by-products are excluded and classified elsewhere.
- Cocoa butter: The extracted fat is classified separately under Heading 1804.
- Chocolate and other preparations containing cocoa: These fall under Heading 1806.
Notes
- Usage: Cocoa paste is a fundamental ingredient in chocolate production, confectionery, bakery products, and beverages.
- Fat content impact: Whether the cocoa paste is defatted or not affects its flavor, texture, and application in food manufacturing.
- Duty Rates: Import duty rates on cocoa paste vary depending on the specific 10-digit HTS code and the country of origin. Traders should consult the current tariff schedules for precise rates.
- Import Regulations: Cocoa paste imports may be subject to food safety standards and quality control depending on the destination country.
Declaration Example
Product: Shipment of wholly defatted cocoa paste for chocolate manufacturing.US HTS Code:
1803.20.00.00(Wholly or partly defatted cocoa paste)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)
General Duty Rate: Refer to current USHTS schedule (may vary by origin and trade agreements)
Additional Requirements: Compliance with FDA food ingredient regulations.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 1801: Cocoa beans, whole or broken, raw or roasted.
- HTS 1804: Cocoa butter, fat and oil.
- HTS 1805: Cocoa powder, not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter.
- HTS 1806: Chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa.
