GLOBALKRATOM.ORG · Evidence-based policy resources
Supply Chain Investigation

Following the Kratom Supply Chain

An evidence-based introduction to international kratom shipping records for lawmakers.

367 curated shipments 11,390 metric tons 500 source records
367
Curated shipping records
11,390
Metric tons of kratom tracked

Why this series?

This series explains how bulk kratom moves from Southeast Asia to the United States using public shipping records. It explains bills of lading, HTS codes, FDA Import Alert 54-15, and what public records can—and cannot—show.

Lawmakers, researchers, and the public need clear, factual information about the kratom supply chain. These articles provide that foundation using publicly available trade data.

Key concepts

Understanding the kratom supply chain starts with three foundational elements of international trade documentation.

Bill of Lading

The shipping industry's receipt showing who shipped cargo, who received it, and how it moved.

HTS Codes

Customs product classifications used to identify goods for trade and tariff purposes.

FDA Import Alert 54-15

Explains FDA's import policy for certain kratom-related products and why it matters.

Download the analysis

⬇️ Download Workbook

Excel workbook containing curated shipping records, HTS classifications, and supplier data.

Series

Each article in this series examines a different aspect of the international kratom supply chain, from shipping documentation to regulatory frameworks.

Editor's note: This series is based on publicly available shipping records and trade databases. Shipping records alone do not establish regulatory violations or unlawful conduct. Additional customs and FDA records would be required to determine how any particular shipment was reviewed or admitted into the United States.