Live Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae)
Live larvae of the darkling beetle (Tenebrio molitor), widely used as live feed for birds, reptiles, and aquarium fish. These are live insects not covered by other headings, falling under tariff item 0106.49.00 for other live insects.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the mealworms are imported for purposes other than as live insects (e.g., dried or processed)
Dried or processed mealworms would be classified under other headings, such as 0410 for edible insects, not live animals.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Check with the CFIA for any import permits required for live insects intended as animal feed
• Package mealworms in breathable containers with a substrate like bran to keep them alive during transit
• Ensure the shipment is clearly labeled with the species and quantity for CBSA inspection
Related Products under Tariff item 0106.49.00
Alfalfa Pollination Leaf Cutter Bee Larvae
Dormant leaf cutter bee larvae (Megachile rotundata) specifically reared for alfalfa seed crop pollination, imported in bulk cocoon trays by commercial growers. These are live insects not specified elsewhere in heading 01.06, classified under tariff item 0106.49.00 as other live insects.
Bulk Leaf Cutter Bee Larvae for Commercial Pollination
High-volume shipment of leaf cutter bee larvae (10,000+ units) for large-scale commercial pollination services, imported dormant. These are live insects not specified elsewhere in heading 01.06, classified under tariff item 0106.49.00 as other live insects.
Live Ant Colonies (Camponotus spp.)
Live ant colonies of the Camponotus species, including a queen, workers, and brood, intended for ant farms and educational purposes. These are live insects not otherwise specified in heading 01.06, and are classified under tariff item 0106.49.00 as other live insects.
Live Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens)
Live larvae of the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens), used for waste composting and as a high-calcium feed for pets and aquaculture. These are live insects not covered by other headings, falling under tariff item 0106.49.00 for other live insects.
Live Crickets (Acheta domesticus)
Live crickets of the species Acheta domesticus, commonly used as feeder insects for reptiles, amphibians, and pet fish. These are live insects not specified elsewhere in heading 01.06, classified under tariff item 0106.49.00 as other live insects.
Live Dubia Roaches (Blaptica dubia)
Live nymphs and adults of the Dubia roach (Blaptica dubia), a staple feeder insect for exotic pets such as bearded dragons. These are live insects not otherwise specified, falling under tariff item 0106.49.00 for other live insects.