Tuna Tariffs 2026: Navigate Duties, Cut Costs, Stay Compliant

United States Customs Duties Overview for Tuna

The United States import duty structure for tuna is categorized primarily by the degree of processing and the packaging medium used. While fresh and frozen tuna often enter duty-free or at low specific rates, canned and preserved tuna are subject to complex tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) that significantly alter the duty liability based on annual volume and container type.

Types of Duties and Taxes:

• Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) Rates: These are standard duties applied to WTO members, which vary based on whether tuna is fresh, frozen, or canned in oil. Canned tuna in oil typically faces much higher rates than tuna in water.
• Tariff-Rate Quotas (TRQ): A lower duty rate is applied to canned tuna not in oil until a specific annual quantity is reached. Once the quota is exceeded, the duty rate increases substantially for the remainder of the year.
• Trade Defense Measures: Section 301 duties apply specifically to imports from China, adding an additional percentage on top of base rates. Antidumping duties may also be applied if specific exporters are found to be selling below fair market value.
• Processing Fees: The MPF is an ad valorem fee for formal entries, while the HMF applies to any cargo arriving via waterborne transportation. These fees are mandatory and calculated based on the cargo's customs value.