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Live Purple Sea Urchin (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus) from China

Live purple sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus) are harvested from Pacific coastal waters and transported alive in chilled seawater systems for immediate processing into uni, the prized edible gonads. They fall under HTS 0308.21.00 as live sea urchins of the specified species, distinct from frozen or processed forms. This classification applies specifically to Strongylocentrotus spp., ensuring proper tariff treatment for fresh imports.

Duty Rate — China → United States

37.5%

Rate breakdown

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)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China

Import Tips

Verify species identification through CITES documentation if applicable, as Strongylocentrotus spp. may require proof of wild harvest origin

Maintain cold chain with temperatures below 4°C and provide health certificates confirming live condition upon entry to avoid reclassification

Avoid common pitfalls like declaring as 'frozen' which shifts to 0308.22; use insulated live tanks for transport