Live European Lobster (Homarus gammarus)
Live Homarus gammarus, the European lobster native to the Atlantic coasts of Europe, is imported alive for high-end restaurants and markets. Classified under HTS 0306.32.0010 due to its species within Homarus spp. and live condition, ensuring premium quality.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If post-capture chilling for short-term holding
Once chilled for preservation, even briefly, it reclassifies from live to chilled under 0306.32.0020.
If misidentified as Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus)
Norway lobsters, or langoustines, are not Homarus spp. and fall under 0306.24, differing by species and claw structure.
If imported as breeding stock for aquaculture
Live crustaceans for breeding or stocking purposes may classify under Chapter 03 cultivated live heading 0302.90.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Secure CITES permits if applicable for protected stocks and EU export health certificates confirming no American Lobster Syndrome
• Monitor water quality and temperature (below 10°C ideal) in shipping containers to minimize stress and mortality claims
• Label shipments clearly as 'live Homarus gammarus' to prevent confusion with similar-looking Nephrops norvegicus (scampi)
Related Products under HTS 0306.32.00.10
Live American Lobster (Homarus americanus)
Live Homarus americanus lobsters, commonly known as American or Maine lobsters, are caught in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and shipped alive to maintain freshness. They fall under HTS 0306.32.0010 as live lobsters of the Homarus spp., specifically in their live state without any preservation processing.
Live Cape Lobster (Homarus capensis)
Live Homarus capensis from South African waters, a lesser-known Homarus species, valued for its firm texture in gourmet seafood. HTS 0306.32.0010 applies strictly to live Homarus spp. lobsters, distinguishing them from rock lobsters.
Live Spiny Lobster (Misidentified as Homarus)
Certain spiny lobsters occasionally misclassified but confirmed as Homarus spp. via documentation; typically, spiny are Palinurus but rare Homarus-like traits qualify here. HTS 0306.32.0010 covers only true Homarus lobsters in live form.
Live Homarus Lobster Breeding Stock
Live Homarus spp. lobsters specifically imported for aquaculture breeding programs, selected for genetic quality. Still classified under HTS 0306.32.0010 as live Homarus lobsters, not under cultivated live due to wild capture origin.