Why is bamboo classified under the 'wood' chapter (44) if it is a grass?

Chapter 44 Note 6 specifically states that for the purposes of the HTS, 'wood' includes bamboo and other ligneous materials, ensuring they are classified alongside traditional timber products.

Are there additional duties for bamboo cutting boards imported from China?

Possibly, but country of origin alone does not settle the result. Verify the final HTS line, current Chapter 99 measures, effective dates, exclusions, and origin facts before filing.

Do food-contact requirements matter for a bamboo cutting board?

They can. Importers should identify the bamboo, adhesives, coatings, oils, inks, and intended food-contact use, then verify which FDA requirements apply to those materials. There is no single blanket FDA certificate required for every kitchenware product.

Bamboo Cutting Board - HTS Code 4419.11.00.00

A bamboo cutting board is a kitchen article used for food preparation tasks such as slicing, dicing, and chopping. It is typically made from laminated bamboo strips and imported as a finished consumer good. From a customs perspective, Chapter 44 Note 6 treats bamboo and similar ligneous materials as wood for heading 4419 purposes.

ReviewedLast reviewed: Aug 16, 2026

Published:: Aug 16, 2026
Next review due:: Nov 14, 2026

Tariff programs, exclusions, rulings, and agency guidance can change. Use this page as research context and verify official sources before filing.

Live data status

Source coverage

USITC HTS schedule record
chapter and section notes where available
Moya tariff overlays during a full live check

Important: AI output requires professional review

Moya provides AI-assisted research for U.S. import workflows. Results are not a binding CBP ruling, legal advice, customs brokerage advice, or filing instruction. Verify HTS codes, duties, and compliance requirements with a licensed customs broker or official source before relying on them.

Reference HTS Code

4419.11.00.00

For research only. Verify the latest schedule and official requirements before filing.

AI Classification Reasoning

Classification of a bamboo cutting board is governed by GRI 1 and GRI 6. Heading 4419 covers tableware and kitchenware of wood, and Chapter 44 Note 6 states that references to wood include bamboo and other materials of a woody nature. Within the bamboo breakout, subheading 4419.11.00.00 specifically covers bread boards, chopping boards and similar boards. A finished bamboo cutting or chopping board is therefore more specifically described by 4419.11.00.00 than by the residual bamboo kitchenware provision 4419.19.90.00. Importers should still verify whether unusual composite materials, coatings, handles, or non-board functions change the essential character before filing.

Official sources

These links support the schedule or ruling facts on this page. Recheck rates and measures before filing.

USITC HTS 4419.11.00.00

Tariff Information

General rate3.2%

🔒Section 301 surcharge (China origin)
🔒Section 232 (steel/aluminum)
🔒Other Chapter 99 duties
🔒Exclusion list lookup
🔒Tariff impact notes

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FAQ

Why is bamboo classified under the 'wood' chapter (44) if it is a grass?: Chapter 44 Note 6 specifically states that for the purposes of the HTS, 'wood' includes bamboo and other ligneous materials, ensuring they are classified alongside traditional timber products.
Are there additional duties for bamboo cutting boards imported from China?: Possibly, but country of origin alone does not settle the result. Verify the final HTS line, current Chapter 99 measures, effective dates, exclusions, and origin facts before filing.
Do food-contact requirements matter for a bamboo cutting board?: They can. Importers should identify the bamboo, adhesives, coatings, oils, inks, and intended food-contact use, then verify which FDA requirements apply to those materials. There is no single blanket FDA certificate required for every kitchenware product.