Other Roots & Tubers; Sago Pith

The US schedule provides dedicated lines for Chinese water chestnuts: fresh or chilled under 0714900500 and frozen (not mixed) under 0714904400. Other frozen roots and tubers with high starch or inulin content fall under 0714904600 or 0714904650. Importers should identify the specific commodity on entry documents to avoid defaulting to a catch-all line, which can trigger classification review.

Fresh water chestnuts are subject to USDA APHIS phytosanitary inspection and FDA admissibility review at the port of entry. China is the dominant supplier, but shipments have historically been subject to FDA monitoring for pesticide residues and sanitary conditions. Importers should maintain Foreign Supplier Verification Program records, ensure FDA facility registration is current, and verify that phytosanitary certificates accompany each shipment. Given the complexity of admissibility determinations, consulting a licensed customs broker or import specialist is recommended.