Mother-of-Pearl Shirt Buttons from Japan
Polished buttons made from natural mother-of-pearl shell, typically round with 2 or 4 holes for sewing onto garments like dress shirts. Classified under HTS 9606.29.40.00 as buttons specifically of pearl or shell, distinct from plastic or metal alternatives.
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
• Obtain CITES certification if shell sourced from protected species to ensure compliance with wildlife import regulations
• Label fiber content accurately as 'mother-of-pearl' or 'shell' to avoid misclassification during customs inspection