HTS 3006.93.50.00

Containing ingredients having nutritional value, in which starch or other foodstuff predominates by weight

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Duty Rates

General (Column 1 - MFN)
6.4%
This is an ad valorem duty, meaning the import duty is calculated as a percentage (6.4%) 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:

20%
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 3006.93.50.00 Covers

Placebos and blinded (or double-blinded) clinical trial kits for recognized clinical trials, where the contents include ingredients with nutritional value such as starch or other foodstuffs. Subheading 3006.93 was created specifically so trial placebos and kits could be classified together with the pharmaceutical goods they mimic. This particular line covers the versions whose composition is food-based rather than purely inert.

Notes for Importers

This provision only applies to goods put up for recognized clinical trials; ordinary sugar pills or supplements sold commercially do not qualify and must be classified by their composition. Importers should keep trial documentation available, since CBP may ask for evidence the goods are for a clinical trial. Kits containing the active investigational drug together with placebo doses can still fall under 3006.93 when blinded.

Product Category

Chemical Products

This chapter includes inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, pharmaceutical products, fertilizers, and industrial chemical preparations.

Classification Details

FieldValue
HTS Code3006.93.50.00
DescriptionContaining ingredients having nutritional value, in which starch or other foodstuff predominates by weight
Chapter30 - Chemical Products
General Duty Rate6.4%
Rate TypeAd Valorem
Special RatesFree (A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P,PA, PE, S, SG)

Related HTS Codes

Other tariff codes under the same heading:

  • 3006.10.01.00 — Sterile surgical catgut, similar sterile suture materials (including sterile absorbable surgical or dental yarns) and sterile tissue adhesives for surgical wound closure; sterile laminaria and sterile laminaria tents; sterile absorbable surgical or dental hemostatics; sterile surgical or dental adhesion barriers, whether or not absorbable
  • 3006.30.10.00 — Containing antigens or antisera
  • 3006.30.50.00 — Other
  • 3006.40.00.00 — Dental cements and other dental fillings; bone reconstruction cements
  • 3006.50.00.00 — First-aid boxes and kits
  • 3006.60.00.00 — Chemical contraceptive preparations based on hormones, on other products of heading 2937 or on spermicides
  • 3006.70.00.00 — Gel preparations designed to be used in human or veterinary medicine as a lubricant for parts of the body for surgical operations or physical examinations or as a coupling agent between the body and medical instruments
  • 3006.91.00.00 — Appliances identifiable for ostomy use

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as a placebo under this code?
A dose form with no active pharmaceutical ingredient, put up for use in a recognized clinical trial. This line specifically covers placebos whose ingredients have nutritional value, such as starch, lactose, or other foodstuff bases.
Can I use this code for sugar pills sold to consumers?
No. The provision is limited to goods for recognized clinical trials. Commercial products must be classified according to their actual composition, often in Chapter 17, 19, or 21.
Do blinded trial kits containing real drug plus placebo go here?
Yes, blinded and double-blinded clinical trial kits are covered by subheading 3006.93 even when they include the investigational product, provided they are put up for a recognized clinical trial.
What is the HTS code 3006.93.50.00 used for?
HTS code 3006.93.50.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Containing ingredients having nutritional value, in which starch or other foodstuff predominates by weight. 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 3006.93.50.00?
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 3006.93.50.00?
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 Chemical Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 3006.93.50.00?
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 3006.93.50.00 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.

Import Tips for This Category

  • Tip 1: Chemical products require Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and may need EPA or DOT approvals.
  • Tip 2: Hazardous materials have special packaging, labeling, and transportation requirements.
  • Tip 3: Pharmaceutical and cosmetic products need FDA approval before entry.

Quick Reference

  • HTS Code:
    3006.93.50.00
  • Category:
    Chemical Products
  • General Rate:
    6.4%
  • Rate Type:
    Ad Valorem