Understanding Import Duties and Tariffs for Dried Banana in the USA, EU, and China
- Rose
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 11
Importing dried banana into major global markets requires a clear understanding of import duties and tariffs. These costs can significantly impact pricing, competitiveness, and profitability. This guide outlines the import duties and tariffs imposed on dried banana in the USA, EU, and China.

1. Import Duties and Tariffs in the USA
The USA imposes tariffs on imported dried bananas based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).
HTS Code: Dried bananas typically fall under HTS code 0803.90.
General Duty Rate: Most-favored-nation (MFN) duty rate for dried bananas is 0%, making it tariff-free from most countries.
Tariff Preferences: Countries with free trade agreements (FTAs) such as Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines benefit from duty-free access under agreements like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Additional Costs: Importers must also consider USDA regulations, FDA food safety compliance, and customs clearance fees.
2. Import Duties and Tariffs in the EU
The European Union (EU) has a unified tariff system, and import duties on dried banana depend on the country of origin.
Tariff Classification: Dried bananas are categorized under CN Code 0803.90.
General Import Duty: The EU typically imposes a 6-12% tariff on dried banana imports.
Tariff Exemptions & Preferences:
The Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) reduces or eliminates tariffs for developing countries such as Vietnam and the Philippines.
Under the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), Vietnam enjoys preferential tariff rates, with duties gradually reducing to 0%.
Organic Certification: Some organic-certified dried bananas may qualify for lower tariffs and faster customs clearance.
VAT Considerations: Importers must pay value-added tax (VAT), which varies between 5-20% depending on the EU country.
3. Import Duties and Tariffs in China
China is a growing market for dried banana imports, with specific tariff rates applied based on trade agreements.
HS Code Classification: Dried bananas fall under HS Code 0803.90.
General Tariff Rate: The standard import duty is 10-20%, depending on the country of origin.
Tariff Reductions:
Countries with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with China, such as ASEAN member states (Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines), benefit from reduced or zero tariffs under the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA).
Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) Rate: Countries under the WTO enjoy lower tariff rates than non-WTO members.
VAT and Consumption Tax:
VAT on imported dried banana in China is around 9-13%.
Consumption tax is generally not applied to dried fruits.
Conclusion
Understanding the import duties and tariffs for dried bananas is essential for cost-effective international trade. While the USA offers a tariff-free market, importers to the EU and China must navigate various duty rates and preferential trade agreements. Businesses should leverage free trade agreements and tariff reduction programs to optimize costs and remain competitive in global markets.
For reliable sourcing of high-quality dried banana with competitive pricing and compliance with international regulations, Mekong International offers premium products with efficient global 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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