John H. Elton, Inc. Spice Brokers Global Services Since 1949
Spice & Commodity Brokers in Greenpoint (Brooklyn), New York
John H. Elton, Inc., is a full service ingredient brokerage house specializing in herbs, spices, dried fruits and nuts.
Proud Member of:
American Spice Trade Association (ASTA)
©2025 John H. Elton Inc. New York, NY USA
Nov 21, 2025
Last evening it was announced that the IEEPA tariffs for Brazil were suspended. This now resets the tariff rate for Brazilian Black Pepper and Cloves to 0%. This is an update to the previous New IEEPA reciprocal tariff exemptions announced on November 13th. Other duties still remain in effect, including most favored nation/MFN (standard tariff rate), Section 301 tariffs on imports from China, and other IEEPA tariffs.
Spices NOT exempt include Basil, Celery seed, Chives, Cilantro, Fenugreek, Garlic (fresh, dried, or powder), Marjoram, Mustard seeds, Onion (dried or powder), Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, Sesame seeds, Star Anise, Tarragon, Thyme.
The situation varies by country. For example, the rate for India now decreases from 50% to 25%. It is best to treat each entry separately to establish the appropriate duty rate.
Pepper
There are multiple factors driving up CNF prices from Vietnam since the beginning of this week. The announcement of USA tariff rollbacks last Thursday taking VN from 20 to 0%, the recent typhoon and heavy destruction of pepper gardens in the DakLak growing area that will have its impact on February’s new crop harvest, and of course the re-entry of China buying white pepper with ease. Local prices have now topped 150k vnd/kg from the lows of 142-146k. There is little to no selling pressure from local stockholders. Lack of activity has turned into reasonably good activity. However with the sudden news last night that the additional 40% IEEPA tariffs on Brazil were suspended, market sentiment could change. Also, the main crop out of Vitoria, Brazil is being harvested now.
Other Spices:
Buyers are resisting new crop Guatemalan CARDAMOM offers inspite of the already reported short crop. After the earlier strength Chinese GARLIC pricing has been stable of late. North American MUSTARD offers remain sharp. Egypt is now offering new crop grades of premium PARSLEY (and other herbs). Demand for Greek and Turkish OREGANO is strong as prices continue to advance. POPPY is active, as is THYME. Spot stocks of Moroccan ROSEMARY are tight. With many spices now under Annex II designation, we should start to see spot prices adjust lower as new shipments arrive that are no longer subjected to tariffs.
JHE IS NOW USDA ORGANIC CERTIFIED