Cassava (Manioc), Fresh or Dried

Costa Rica and Ecuador are the leading US suppliers of fresh and dried cassava, reflecting the crop's prevalence across Central and South American smallholder agriculture and the relatively short transit times that support fresh-root shipments. The US schedule separates frozen cassava (0714101000) from fresh or dried product (0714102000), and importers should note that fresh cassava roots are highly perishable — shelf life is typically only a few days after harvest without wax coating or refrigeration, making cold-chain integrity a critical compliance and quality concern. USDA APHIS phytosanitary requirements apply to fresh root imports, and FDA oversight covers food-grade entries.