Raw peanuts are subject to a tariff-rate quota (TRQ) under US law, meaning a lower in-quota duty rate applies up to a specified volume, with a higher over-quota rate applying to quantities above that threshold. Importers must track quota fill levels and, if importing over-quota, factor the higher duty into landed-cost calculations.

FDA monitors imported peanuts for aflatoxin, a mycotoxin produced by mold that poses a food-safety risk. Shipments from origins with a history of elevated contamination may be subject to automatic detention and require laboratory certification before release. Importers should obtain aflatoxin test results from the exporter prior to shipment and work with a licensed customs broker familiar with FDA import alerts.