As part of an Executive Order issued Nov.14, the White House updated its list of exemptions to include many spices, coffee and tea (including extracts, essences and concentrates). Also added to the Annex II (fully exempt from the reciprocal tariff regime) are cinnamon, ginger and turmeric.
“It appears that our advocacy, specifically regarding cinnamon and turmeric, has resonated with policymakers,” Robert Marriott, vice president of government & regulatory affairs for the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA), stated in an update.
“We’re thankful for this relief from tariffs on unavailable natural resources, which benefits both American businesses and the health of Americans. Numerous other herbal goods that cannot be grown within our borders are also in need of tariff relief.”
Potential relief for psyllium and boswellia
Psyllium husks (Plantago ovata) and Boswellia are listed under “Potential Tariff Adjustments for Aligned Partners”, which means the product may be exempt if a country has a trade agreement with the United States. The majority of psyllium husk is sourced from India, and with no trade agreement yet between the United States and India, psyllium husk from India would not qualify for exemption.
Daniel Fabricant, PhD, president and CEO of the Natural Products Association (NPA) confirmed that if psyllium is sourced from another country then the case could and will be made for an exemption.
“That’s part of our efforts right now,” he told NutraIngredients. “That will also help once a deal is worked out with nations like India.”
Psyllium is the top-selling herbal supplement in the mainstream channel, according to the latest Herb Market Report, and tenth in the Natural channel. Combined, sales are valued at over $300 million.
As noted by the authors of the Herb Market Report, psyllium husk carries an FDA-authorized health claim related to cardiovascular disease, with the FDA allowing the following claim: “Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol that include 7 grams of soluble fiber from psyllium husk per day may reduce the risk of heart disease.”
Retroactive application
The revisions to the code were retroactively applied to goods “entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption” on or after Nov. 13, 12:01 a.m. ET.
The full annex can be accessed at the White House website HERE.
