Eyewear Imports

Eyewear imports – frames, sunglasses, contact lenses – classify under HTS 9003 (eyeglass frames), 9004 (sunglasses), and 9001.30 (contact lenses). Section 122 stacks; Section 301 if China-origin. Luxottica (Italy) dominant for frames; Bausch + Lomb (US/Switzerland) and J&J Vision (US/Israel) for contacts.

This guide covers U.S. import tariff and compliance for eyewear.

For SMB importers in this category, the practical questions are HTS classification, applicable Section 232/301/122 stacks, FTA opportunities, and regulatory overlay (FDA/USDA/EPA/CPSC where relevant).

HTS classification basics

Eyeglass frames HTS 9003.11 (plastic) or 9003.19 (other materials). Sunglasses HTS 9004.10. Contact lenses HTS 9001.30.

Tariff stack and rates

Base 2-2.5% + Section 122 (15%) + Section 301 (if China-origin, often 25%).

Country of origin considerations

Italy (Luxottica), China for mass-market frames. Vietnam emerging.

Regulatory overlay

FDA Class I medical device for prescription contact lenses. CPSC for sunglass UV claims. ANSI Z80 standards.

Mitigation opportunities

Italian-origin avoids Section 301. Mexican USMCA qualification possible for certain products.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical effective duty rate?

Depends on origin and HTS classification. China-origin: 22-42% effective when Section 301 + Section 122 stack. USMCA-qualifying Mexican production: often 0-3%. Vietnam, India, Korea: 15-17% with Section 122.

Can I qualify under USMCA?

Possible if production occurs in U.S., Mexico, or Canada and meets rules of origin (typically 60% RVC under transaction value or 50% net cost). USMCA-qualifying goods are exempt from Section 122.

Are IEEPA refunds available?

Yes – for entries between April 5, 2025 and February 24, 2026 that paid IEEPA duty. Filed through CBP’s CAPE portal. We file claims on contingency for filings above $50k.

What about Section 232 exposure?

Specific to product type. Steel and aluminum derivatives expansion brought some downstream products into scope. Component-level analysis identifies actual coverage.

How do you help with this category?

Tariff exposure assessment ($2,500-$7,500), classification audit, USMCA qualification, refund recovery, audit response. Independent of any customs brokerage.