TariffCheck
Tariff calculator
South KoreaCosmetics, Skincare & Beauty Products2026 Rates

US Tariff on Cosmetics from Korea 2026

Under the US–Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA, in force since 2012), qualifying cosmetics and beauty products from South Korea enter the United States duty-free (0%). The base MFN rate for cosmetics ranges from 3–6.5%, so KORUS provides meaningful savings for qualifying goods. To claim the preferential rate, the cosmetics must meet KORUS rules of origin (generally a tariff classification change from non-Korean inputs).

Key figures at a glance
Product
Cosmetics, Skincare & Beauty Products
Origin country
South Korea
Typical buyer
Beauty brands, importers, K-beauty retailers
HTS hint
HTS 3303 (perfumes/toilet waters), 3304 (beauty/makeup preparations), 3305 (hair preparations), 3307 (shaving/bath preps)
HTS classification & lookup

Applicable HTS range: HTS 3303 (perfumes/toilet waters), 3304 (beauty/makeup preparations), 3305 (hair preparations), 3307 (shaving/bath preps)

To claim KORUS 0%, you need a KORUS Certificate of Origin or equivalent self-certification from your Korean exporter. Without a valid certification, CBP will assess the full MFN rate.

Source: USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, 2026 Revision 2 — hts.usitc.gov

Compliance risk notes
  • 1KORUS origin rules for cosmetics (HTS 33) require a tariff-shift — typically a Chapter 33 tariff heading from any other chapter. Verify that your Korean manufacturer can certify compliant origin.
  • 2FDA cosmetics registration is mandatory under the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA, 2022) — this is a separate compliance requirement from customs duties but is enforced at entry.
  • 3Labeling requirements (INCI ingredient list, net contents, distributor name) must comply with FDA cosmetic labeling regulations (21 CFR 701).
  • 4K-beauty innovations (e.g., snail secretion, bee venom) may face FDA import alert scrutiny if the ingredient is novel or the product is mislabeled as a drug.
  • 5If products are manufactured in China but labeled 'Korean cosmetics,' origin marking rules apply — the actual country of manufacture must be disclosed.
FAQ: What is the tariff on cosmetics imported from South Korea?

Do all Korean cosmetics automatically qualify for 0% under KORUS?

No. The product must meet KORUS rules of origin and be accompanied by a valid certification. If the cosmetic uses significant non-Korean inputs that do not undergo a qualifying tariff shift in Korea, it may not qualify. Always request origin documentation from your Korean supplier.

What is the duty rate for Korean cosmetics if I cannot claim KORUS?

Without KORUS preference, the MFN rate applies: perfumes/toilet waters (HTS 3303) face 1.8 cents/kg + 3.4%; makeup preparations (HTS 3304.99) face 4.9%; shampoos (HTS 3305.10) face 3.3%. These are meaningful costs for high-volume imports.

Are Korean skincare serums classified as cosmetics or drugs for tariff purposes?

For tariff purposes, classification depends on the product's intended use and marketing claims. Products making drug claims (treats acne, reduces wrinkles via drug mechanism) may be classified as drugs under HTS 3004 and face different duty rates plus FDA drug registration requirements. Pure cosmetics (moisturizing, cleansing) classify under HTS 33.

Calculate your exact landed cost

This page provides a research overview. For a precise tariff breakdown — including Section 301, Section 232, antidumping, and Merchandise Processing Fee — use the full calculator with your exact HTS code and shipment value.

Disclaimer: Informational estimates based on USITC HTS data, USTR Section 301 schedules, and public CBP ADD/CVD records as of 2026. Not legal or customs brokerage advice.

Verify all rates with a licensed customs broker before making import decisions.