Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
Free
This item enters the United States duty-free. No import duty is charged regardless of origin country.
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
$2.35/pf. liter
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 2208.90.71.00 Covers
This code covers imitations of brandy and other spirituous beverages, meaning drinks made to resemble brandy or other spirits without being the genuine distilled product. These are typically compounded or flavored alcoholic beverages sold and presented as brandy-style or spirit-style drinks. It sits within heading 2208, which covers spirits, liqueurs and other spirituous beverages.
Notes for Importers
Genuine brandy distilled from grape wine classifies under 2208.20, and other true distilled spirits have their own subheadings, so this line is only for imitation products. Low-alcohol or non-alcoholic spirit alternatives may fall in heading 2202 instead, depending on alcohol content. All products on this line are subject to TTB labeling and federal excise tax requirements, and truthful labeling of imitation products is closely scrutinized.
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 | 2208.90.71.00 |
| Description | Imitations of brandy and other spirituous beverages |
| Chapter | 22 - Prepared Foodstuffs |
| General Duty Rate | Free |
| Rate Type | Free |
| Special Rates | |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as an imitation of brandy under this code?
A beverage compounded or flavored to taste and present like brandy or another spirit without being the authentic distilled product, for example a neutral-spirit base flavored and colored to resemble brandy.
Where does genuine brandy classify?
True brandy obtained by distilling grape wine or grape marc classifies under 2208.20. This imitation line only applies when the product is not the genuine spirit it resembles.
Do non-alcoholic spirit alternatives fall under 2208.90.71.00?
Usually not. Non-alcoholic and very low alcohol spirit substitutes typically classify in heading 2202 as non-alcoholic beverages. This code requires a spirituous, alcohol-bearing beverage.
What is the HTS code 2208.90.71.00 used for?
HTS code 2208.90.71.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Imitations of brandy and other spirituous beverages. 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 2208.90.71.00?
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 2208.90.71.00?
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 2208.90.71.00?
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 2208.90.71.00 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.