Live Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) from China
Mealworms are the larval stage of the darkling beetle, widely raised as high-protein feeders for birds, reptiles, and fish. They are available in various sizes and are a staple in the pet supply industry. This HTS code applies to live mealworms as other insects.
Duty Rate — China → United States
20%
Rate breakdown
9903.88.157.5%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.39, 9903.88.42, 9903.88.44, 9903.88.47, 9903.88.49, 9903.88.51, 9903.88.53, 9903.88.55, 9903.88.57, 9903.88.65, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(r) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(s)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Include lab test results showing absence of pathogens like viruses or bacteria common in beetle larvae
• Ship in breathable media like bran to prevent suffocation and maintain viability
• Check state-level restrictions on importing live insects to avoid quarantines