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Home / Section IV / HS 19.03

HS 19.03

Heading

Tapioca and substitutes therefor prepared from starch; in the form of flakes, grains, pearls, siftings or similar forms

HS Code 19.03 classifies "Tapioca and substitutes therefor prepared from starch, in the form of flakes, grains, pearls, siftings or similar forms" under Section IV (Prepared Foodstuffs; Beverages, Spirits, Tobacco). This heading-level code is used internationally for customs classification, tariff determination, and trade statistics.

Classification Details

HS Code19.03
DescriptionTapioca and substitutes therefor prepared from starch; in the form of flakes, grains, pearls, siftings or similar forms
LevelHeading (4-digit)
SectionIV — Prepared Foodstuffs; Beverages, Spirits, Tobacco
Chapter19

🇺🇸 US Import Duty

Average Duty Rate4.5%
Duty Range0-17.5%
NotesCereal preparations, pastries, bread
Free Trade AgreementsUSMCA: 0%

Rates are approximate and based on MFN (Most Favored Nation) tariffs. Actual rates may vary by specific product classification. Always verify with USITC for official rates.

Classification Guide

When classifying goods under HS 19.03, ensure the product matches the specific description. This is a heading-level code. For customs declaration, you may need the more specific 6-digit subheading. Check with your national customs authority for additional digits required.

Trade Context

Section IV covers prepared foodstuffs, beverages, spirits, and tobacco — processed food products.

Regulatory Note

Highly regulated sector with excise taxes on alcohol and tobacco. Food safety standards (FDA, EU) significantly impact trade.

🇺🇸 US Import Document Checklist

Documents required when importing products under HS 19.03 into the United States.

Required for All Imports

☑Commercial InvoiceCBP
Detailed invoice from the seller showing product description, quantity, unit price, total value, and terms of sale (Incoterms).
☑Packing ListCBP
Itemized list of contents in each package, including weights, dimensions, and marks/numbers matching the shipping containers.
☑Bill of Lading (B/L) or Airway BillCarrier
Transport document issued by the carrier confirming receipt of goods for shipment. Acts as a contract of carriage and receipt.
☑CBP Entry Summary (Form 7501)CBP
The formal customs declaration filed with US Customs and Border Protection for all commercial imports.
☑Importer Security Filing (ISF/10+2)CBP
Must be filed at least 24 hours before ocean cargo is loaded. Required for all ocean shipments to the US.
☑Customs BondCBP
A financial guarantee ensuring payment of duties, taxes, and fees. Required for commercial shipments over $2,500.

FTA Certificate of Origin (for preferential rates)

🤝USMCA Certificate of Origin — self-certification by importer, exporter, or producer. No prescribed format.
🤝Korea-US FTA Certificate of Origin — can be issued by importer, exporter, or producer.

This checklist is for general guidance only. Actual requirements may vary based on specific product, country of origin, and current regulations. Always consult with a licensed customs broker or the relevant agency for official requirements.

Sub-Classifications

1903.00Food preparations; tapioca and substitutes thereof, prepared from starch in the form of flakes, grains, pearls, siftings or similarSubheading

Related HS Codes

19.01Malt extract; flour/groats/meal/starch/malt extract products1901.10Food preparations; of flour, meal, starch, malt extract or m1901.20Food preparations; mixes and doughs for the preparation of b1901.90Food preparations; of flour, meal, starch, malt extract or m19.02Pasta; whether or not cooked or stuffed with meat or other s1902.11Food preparations; pasta, containing eggs, uncooked, not stu1902.19Food preparations; pasta, uncooked (excluding that containin1902.20Food preparations; pasta, stuffed (with meat or other substa

Related Data Resources

ShipCalcWize - Shipping cost calculator →CalcPeek - Unit converters →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS Code 19.03?
HS Code 19.03 classifies "Tapioca and substitutes therefor prepared from starch, in the form of flakes, grains, pearls, siftings or similar forms" under Section IV (Prepared Foodstuffs; Beverages, Spirits, Tobacco). This heading-level code is used internationally for customs classification, tariff determination, and trade statistics.
What products fall under HS 19.03?
HS Code 19.03 covers: Tapioca and substitutes therefor prepared from starch, in the form of flakes, grains, pearls, siftings or similar forms. This is a broad category that includes more specific subcategories. Browse the child codes below for detailed product classifications.
How do I use HS Code 19.03 for customs?
When classifying goods under HS 19.03, ensure the product matches the specific description. This is a heading-level code. For customs declaration, you may need the more specific 6-digit subheading. Check with your national customs authority for additional digits required.
What are the trade regulations for Prepared Foodstuffs; Beverages, Spirits, Tobacco?
Highly regulated sector with excise taxes on alcohol and tobacco. Food safety standards (FDA, EU) significantly impact trade.
Is HS 19.03 the same in every country?
The first 6 digits of HS codes are standardized worldwide by the World Customs Organization (WCO). However, most countries add additional digits (8-10 total) for their national tariff schedules. Always verify the full code with your destination country's customs authority.
What is the US import duty for HS 19.03?
The average US import duty for products under HS 19.03 is approximately 4.5% (range: 0-17.5%). USMCA: 0% Note: actual rates depend on the specific product classification and country of origin. Verify with USITC for official rates.
Can I get a lower tariff rate under a Free Trade Agreement?
USMCA: 0%. The US has FTAs with 20 countries including Canada, Mexico (USMCA), South Korea (KORUS), Australia, and others. To qualify for preferential rates, goods must meet rules of origin requirements and have proper documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin).

Data verified March 2026 · Source: UN Comtrade & USITC

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