Fresh Chilled Rock Lobster Tails from Mexico
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 — Mexico → United States
10%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.5510%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 10% ad valorem on products of Mexico
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