Pathogen-Contaminated Swabs from China

Cotton-tipped applicators used for viral sampling (e.g., COVID tests), saturated with respiratory secretions, as clinical waste from diagnostic medical procedures.

Duty Rate — China → United States

17.5%

Rate breakdown

9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
9903.88.157.5%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.39, 9903.88.42, 9903.88.44, 9903.88.47, 9903.88.49, 9903.88.51, 9903.88.53, 9903.88.55, 9903.88.57, 9903.88.65, 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(r) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(s)

Import Tips

Declare under Category A or B infectious substances per IATA if viable pathogens present

Lab reports confirming pathogen type aid customs classification

Unused swabs are 5601.22; contamination shifts to waste