SITCSection 0
U.S. imports of vinegar and substitutes for vinegar obtained from acetic acid (SITC 09844) totaled $13.3M in April 2026, traded with 39 countries.
Importers of Vinegar and Substitutes for Vinegar Obtained from Acetic Acid paid $1.4M in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 11% on $12.8M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule.
Last updated: April 2026 dataFermented vinegars — including wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, rice vinegar, and malt vinegar — and synthetic acetic-acid-based vinegar substitutes occupy the same heading but differ substantially in production method, flavor profile, and market positioning. FDA regulates vinegar under 21 CFR Part 169, which sets minimum acidity standards (typically 4% acetic acid) and restricts the use of the term 'vinegar' on synthetic substitutes that must instead be labeled as 'diluted acetic acid.' The fermentation substrate (wine, cider, grain, rice) is the primary commercial differentiator and must be accurately declared on the label. Importers of rice vinegar and certain other Asian-origin vinegars should assess whether Section 301 tariff measures apply based on country of origin.
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No. Under FDA regulations at 21 CFR Part 169, the unqualified term 'vinegar' is reserved for products derived from fermentation. Synthetic acetic acid dilutions must be labeled as 'diluted acetic acid' or 'vinegar substitute' and cannot use the word 'vinegar' alone. Importers should verify the production method with the supplier and ensure the label complies before entry. Consult a licensed customs broker or FDA-registered food importer for admissibility guidance.
FDA standards generally require vinegar to contain not less than 4 grams of acetic acid per 100 mL (4% acidity). Products falling below this threshold may not qualify as vinegar under US standards of identity and could face labeling challenges at entry. Importers should request a certificate of analysis confirming acidity from the foreign manufacturer prior to shipment.
| Country | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| ITALY | $8.6M | -- | -$8.6M |
| CANADA | $465K | $2.3M | +$1.9M |
| SPAIN | $1.3M | -- | -$1.3M |
| NETHERLANDS | $740K | $92K | -$648K |
| CHINA | $316K | $446K | +$130K |
Monthly import values over time
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