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