“Delicious mixed fried rice” could cost travellers – US embassy reminds Guyanese of customs rules

As the summer travel season gets underway, the United States (US) Embassy in Guyana is encouraging travellers to familiarise themselves with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations before departing for the US, warning that failure to comply could result in fines, confiscation of items or other penalties. In a social media post, the embassy directed travellers to its latest “Ask the Consul” column, which outlines the rules governing what can and cannot be taken into the US. The embassy highlighted common items often packed by Guyanese travellers for relatives and friends abroad, including mangoes, pepper sauce, saltfish, ground provisions and “delicious mixed fried rice”, noting that some of these items may be restricted or prohibited. According to the article, most fresh fruits, vegetables and ground provisions are either prohibited or heavily restricted because of concerns about introducing pests and diseases that could affect US agriculture. Travellers are advised that fresh mangoes, sapodillas, peppers, bora, eddoes and similar items may not be permitted. The embassy noted that commercially packaged and processed products, such as sealed pepper sauce, packaged spices, baked goods and candy, are generally allowed. CBP also warned that travellers who fail to declare agricultural products face penalties. First-time offenders can be fined US$300, while a second violation can attract a US$500 penalty. The warning comes weeks after US Customs and Border Protection issued a US$300 fine to a traveller from Guyana who failed to declare agricultural items, including seeds and beef products, upon arrival at a US port of entry. According to CBP’s Office of Field Operations, agriculture specialists discovered the undeclared items during an inspection after the traveller reportedly failed to declare them despite being given multiple opportunities to do so. The embassy’s guidance also addresses the transportation of fish and seafood. Fresh, frozen, dried and salted fish are generally permitted for personal use if properly packaged and declared, although certain species may be restricted or require additional documentation. Travellers are also cautioned against carrying homemade foods containing meat, including fried rice, cook-up rice and other prepared dishes, as meat products face strict import restrictions due to animal disease concerns. The article further reminds travellers that live animals require permits and health certificates, while traditional medicines and herbal remedies may be subject to restrictions depending on their ingredients. Regarding currency, the “Ask the Consul” column noted that there is no limit on the amount of money a person can bring into or take out of the US. However, travellers carrying US$10,000 or more must declare it to CBP by filing the required reporting form.
It also advised travellers to declare all items, retain receipts for purchased goods, keep medications in their original containers, and review CBP regulations before travelling. “Always declare everything,” the column said, noting that declaration does not automatically result in confiscation but demonstrates compliance with US law. The “Ask the Consul” column is a monthly feature published by the US Embassy that provides information on US immigration, travel and consular matters.