Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
3%
This is an ad valorem duty, meaning the import duty is calculated as a percentage (3%) of the declared value of the imported goods.
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
35%
Column 2 rates are substantially higher than Column 1 rates and are rarely applied in modern international trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
What HTS 2103.10.00.00 Covers
This code covers soy sauce in all its retail and bulk forms, including traditionally brewed shoyu, tamari, light and dark soy sauce, and chemically hydrolyzed soy sauce. It applies whether the sauce is packed in consumer bottles or shipped in bulk drums and totes for food manufacturers.
Notes for Importers
The product should be a sauce whose essential character is soy sauce; heavily compounded products like teriyaki marinades, soy-based stir fry sauces with substantial added ingredients, or sweet soy glazes are often classified as mixed condiments under 2103.90 instead. FDA food facility registration and prior notice apply. Powdered soy sauce is also generally accepted under heading 2103 as long as it remains essentially soy sauce.
Product Category
Prepared Foodstuffs
This chapter includes prepared and preserved meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, and other processed food products ready for consumption.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 2103.10.00.00 |
| Description | Soy sauce |
| Chapter | 21 - Prepared Foodstuffs |
| General Duty Rate | 3% |
| Rate Type | Ad Valorem |
| Special Rates | Free (A*,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,JP,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is teriyaki sauce classified as soy sauce?
Usually not. Teriyaki and similar compound sauces contain significant sweeteners and other ingredients and are typically classified as other sauces or mixed condiments under 2103.90 rather than as soy sauce under 2103.10.
Does 2103.10 cover tamari and gluten-free soy sauces?
Yes. Tamari and other brewed soy sauces, including gluten-free versions, are soy sauce for classification purposes and fall under 2103.10 regardless of the specific brewing method.
What is the HTS code 2103.10.00.00 used for?
HTS code 2103.10.00.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Soy sauce. 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 2103.10.00.00?
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 2103.10.00.00?
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 Prepared Foodstuffs products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 2103.10.00.00?
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 2103.10.00.00 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.