Import Duties and Taxes for Dried Sweet Potato in Key Markets (USA, EU, China)
- Rose
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Understanding import duties and taxes is crucial for businesses looking to import dried sweet potatoes into major global markets. These costs impact overall profitability and pricing strategies. This article outlines the key import duties and taxes applied in the USA, EU, and China.

1. USA: Import Duties and Taxes
Tariff Classification: Dried sweet potatoes are categorized under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). Importers should check the specific code to determine duty rates.
Import Duties: The general duty rate for dried sweet potatoes in the USA varies, but it typically ranges from 0% to 10% depending on the origin and trade agreements.
Additional Taxes: Importers may also be subject to FDA compliance fees and state-level taxes.
Exemptions and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Countries with trade agreements such as Vietnam (under the Generalized System of Preferences - GSP) may benefit from reduced or zero tariffs.
2. EU: Import Duties and Taxes
Common External Tariff (CET): The EU applies a unified tariff for dried sweet potatoes imported from non-EU countries, generally ranging between 5% and 12%.
Value-Added Tax (VAT): VAT is applied at different rates depending on the country, typically between 5% and 25%.
Food Safety and Compliance Fees: Importers must comply with EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) regulations, which may incur additional costs.
Trade Agreements: Countries with preferential trade agreements (e.g., Vietnam under the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement) may enjoy lower or zero tariffs.
3. China: Import Duties and Taxes
Customs Tariff: China imposes an average 10% import duty on dried sweet potatoes, but this can vary based on supplier country and trade agreements.
Value-Added Tax (VAT): Typically 9% to 13%, depending on the classification of the product.
Additional Regulatory Costs: CIQ (China Inspection and Quarantine) certification and labeling requirements may add to import costs.
Preferential Trade Agreements: Vietnam and China have trade agreements that may allow for lower tariffs.
Conclusion
Import duties and taxes are critical cost factors when importing dried sweet potatoes. Businesses should conduct thorough research on tariff classifications, trade agreements, and regulatory requirements to optimize costs and ensure compliance. By working with reliable suppliers and customs brokers, importers can efficiently manage their expenses and streamline their import process.
For high-quality dried sweet potato imports with competitive pricing and compliance with global import regulations, Mekong International provides reliable sourcing and shipping solutions.
MEKONG INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD
Contact Name: Mr. Ninh Tran
Phone: +84 909 722 866 (Phone / Whatsapp / Wechat)
Email: ninhtran@mekongint.com
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