Live Caribbean Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus) from China

Live specimens of Caribbean spiny lobster, Panulirus argus, imported for immediate use in high-end seafood restaurants or aquaculture. Classified under HTS 0306.31.00.00 as live rock lobster/sea crawfish of the specified genera, in shell, not processed beyond keeping alive.

Duty Rate — China → United States

35%

Rate breakdown

9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
9903.88.0325%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.13, 9903.88.18, 9903.88.33, 9903.88.34, 9903.88.35, 9903.88.36, 9903.88.37, 9903.88.38, 9903.88.40, 9903.88.41, 9903.88.43, 9903.88.45, 9903.88.46, 9903.88.48, 9903.88.56, 9903.88.64, 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(e) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(f)

Import Tips

Obtain live animal import permits and ensure humane transport with oxygenation to prevent mortality during shipping

Verify species identification certificates to confirm Panulirus spp. as misclassification can lead to seizures

Comply with CITES if from protected populations; avoid common pitfalls like inadequate temperature control