Unworked Tortoise Shell
Hawksbill sea turtle scutes that are boiled and softened but not cut to shape. Tariff item 0507.90.00 explicitly includes tortoise-shell unworked. This product is strictly controlled under CITES due to the endangered status of hawksbill turtles.
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 shell is processed into a product not recognizable as tortoise-shell
Highly processed tortoise-shell may fall under heading 0511 as animal products not elsewhere specified.
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
• Hawksbill turtle shell is CITES-listed, so obtain a valid CITES import permit from Environment and Climate Change Canada before shipping
• Ensure the shell is unworked and not cut to shape to remain under this tariff item
• Be prepared to provide documentation of legal acquisition and origin
Related Products under Tariff item 0507.90.00
Deer Velvet Antler
Unworked deer velvet antler, covered in soft velvet skin with a live blood supply, harvested during the growth phase. This is classified under tariff item 0507.90.00 as simply prepared antler not cut to shape. It is used primarily for traditional medicine and supplements.
Powdered Antler Waste
Ground antler trimmings and waste powder, derived from deer or elk antlers. This product falls under tariff item 0507.90.00 as waste of antlers, which is explicitly included in the heading's scope for powder and waste of these products. It is commonly used in dietary supplements and traditional remedies.
Raw Cattle Horns
Unworked cattle horns, simply sawn off and cleaned but not shaped or cut to a specific form. These are classified under tariff item 0507.90.00 as horns, which are explicitly listed in the heading. They are used for making buttons, handles, or traditional musical instruments.
Raw Hippopotamus Ivory Tusk
An unworked hippopotamus canine tusk, simply cleaned but otherwise intact. Per Chapter Note 3, hippopotamus tusks are regarded as ivory, and tariff item 0507.90.00 covers ivory unworked or simply prepared. This product is used for artisanal tool handles or carvings.
Raw Hooves
Horse or cow hooves that are trimmed and dried but not further worked or shaped. These fall under tariff item 0507.90.00 as hooves, which are explicitly included in the heading. They are commonly used for gelatin production or in crafts.
Raw Whalebone
Baleen plates from whales, unworked or simply dried but not cut to shape. Tariff item 0507.90.00 explicitly includes whalebone and whalebone hair. This material is historically used in basket weaving and other crafts.