HTS US: 0304.XX.XXXX
Description
This heading covers fish fillets and other fish meat, whether fresh or frozen, intended for human consumption. The classification includes:
- Fresh: Fish meat that has not undergone any preservation processes, typically kept at a low temperature to maintain freshness.
- Frozen: Fish meat preserved by freezing, maintained at a temperature of -18°C (0°F) or lower to ensure quality and longevity.
The fish can be skinned or unskinned, and may include various species such as cod, haddock, and sole.
Code Hierarchy
- Section I:
- Live Animals; Animal Products (Chapters 01-05)
- Chapter 03: Fish and Crustaceans, Molluscs and Other Aquatic Invertebrates
- Heading 0304: Fish fillets and other fish meat, fresh or frozen.
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
0304.XX.XXXX– The final digits specify the exact type and preparation of fish meat.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit HS heading 0304 is broken down into specific 6-digit and 10-digit codes based on the type and state of the fish meat.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0304.10 | Fish fillets, fresh or chilled | Fillets of various fish species, not frozen. |
0304.10.0000 |
Fresh or chilled fish fillets | Includes species like sole and cod. |
| 0304.20 | Fish fillets, frozen | Fish fillets preserved by freezing. |
0304.20.0000 |
Frozen fish fillets | Commonly includes haddock and tilapia. |
| 0304.90 | Other fish meat, fresh or frozen | Includes other cuts and parts of fish. |
0304.90.1000 |
Other fresh fish meat | Such as fish heads, tails, etc. |
0304.90.2000 |
Other frozen fish meat | Includes off-cuts and trimmings. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, note these exclusions:
- Canned or preserved fish
- products are classified under Chapter 16.
- Fish roe (e.g., caviar) falls under 0302.
- Fish meal used for animal feed is classified under 2301.
- Processed fish products such as fish sticks or fish cakes fall under 1604.
Notes
- USDA/FSIS Regulations:
- The import of fresh or frozen fish is regulated by the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). Imported fish must meet U.S. safety standards and come from approved sources.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates may vary based on the specific 10-digit HTS code. Some fish products may be subject to tariff-rate quotas (TRQs), with varying duty rates based on quantity and type.
- Country of Origin Labeling (COOL): Accurate labeling of the country of origin is required for fish products.
Declaration Example
Product:
A shipment of frozen cod fillets from Norway.
US HTS Code:
0304.20.0000(Frozen fish fillets)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (May be subject to TRQ)
Additional Requirements: USDA/FSIS import inspection and health certificate.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 0302:
- Fish roe (caviar).
- HTS 1604: Prepared or preserved fish products.
- HTS 2301: Fish meal.
- HTS 0301: Live fish.
