Fresh Chilled Rock Lobster Tails from Japan
Fresh or chilled spiny lobster tails (Panulirus spp.) from tropical waters, in shell or shelled, not frozen. Fits HTS 0306.39.0100 as other fresh/chilled crustaceans. These are premium seafood items often air-freighted for high-end restaurants.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• Require FDA prior notice and shellfish inspection reports for fresh/chilled products to prevent spoilage claims
• Label with country of origin and harvest date; avoid common pitfall of declaring as 'frozen' when chilled
• Check for CITES permits if species like Caribbean spiny lobster approach protected status thresholds