Sea Silk Sponges (Loose Raw) from Japan
Fine-textured sea silk sponges collected from coastal waters, minimally cleaned and dried without fiber extraction. These qualify under HTS 0511.99.36.00 as other animal products NESOI, specifically natural sponges, distinct from horsehair or edible guts per Chapter exclusions. Supplied loose for industrial or artisanal use.
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
• Conduct pre-shipment inspections for purity to avoid contamination claims leading to quarantine
• Declare exact drying methods in invoices to confirm no 'working' that would invoke Chapter note on sorting or preparation