Archive · 27 Jul 2025
CBP Issues New Travel Warning: Declare All Agricultural Items
The US government is reminding everyone entering the country to tell them about any food, plants, or animals they're bringing in.
This includes things like meat, fruits, vegetables, and even soil.
It's important because these items could carry bugs or diseases that could hurt American farms and the economy.
If you don't declare these items, you could be fined.
Different rules apply to different items, and some things, like certain meats, are completely banned.
So, always declare any agricultural items to avoid problems!
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires travelers to declare agricultural items when entering the US.
This includes meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil, animals, and related products.
Travelers must answer 'Yes' to Question 11 on CBP Declaration Form 6059B if carrying such items.
Undeclared items risk introducing pests or diseases, potentially harming US agriculture and the economy.
Penalties for non-commercial violations can reach up to $1,000; commercial violations face higher penalties.
- Who
- International travelers entering the United States.
- What
- CBP requires travelers to declare agricultural items.
- When
- As of a recent announcement from CBP.
- Where
- At all US ports of entry.
- Why
- To prevent the introduction of agricultural pests and diseases.
Travelers
US Government
Severity of Regulations
Travelers
Travelers may view the regulations as inconvenient or overly strict.
US Government
CBP and the US Government view the regulations as necessary to protect the country's agricultural interests.
- Agency
- US Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- Declaration Requirement
- All agricultural items
- Declaration Form
- CBP Declaration Form 6059B (Question 11)
- First-Time Offense Fine (non-commercial)
- Up to $1,000
- Items Requiring Permits
- Plant parts for growing, live animals
- Banned Items
- Soil without approval; certain meat products, fresh tomatoes and bell peppers from Canada.