Cuttlefish in Olive Oil from Mexico
Cuttlefish in olive oil consists of tenderized cuttlefish pieces preserved in extra virgin olive oil, often with herbs, in glass jars. This product is classified under tariff item 1605.54.00 as a prepared or preserved mollusc, because the cuttlefish has been cooked or tenderized and preserved in oil, which goes beyond the simple preservation methods of Chapter 3. The oil and herbs serve as a preserving medium and flavouring, making it a ready-to-eat preparation.
Duty Rate — Mexico → Canada
Import Tips
• Declare the product accurately as a prepared mollusc, and be ready to provide a detailed ingredient list to CBSA to confirm the cuttlefish content exceeds 20% by weight
• Verify that the olive oil and herbs do not constitute a separate preparation that could shift classification to a sauce or mixed food
• Check the country of origin for preferential duty rates under Canada's free trade agreements, and have the necessary certificates ready