HS 010231 Buffalo

Quick Answer: Buffalo imported under HS 010231 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers live buffalo, excluding those for slaughter. Importers should note that while duty rates are currently nil in these key markets, specific import regulations, such as veterinary and sanitary requirements, remain critical. Compliance with these non-tariff barriers is essential for smooth customs clearance. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0102310000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0102310000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
01023100 Free — —
0102310010 — — ["No."]
0102310020 — — ["No."]

Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).

Data compiled and presented by HSRates.

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 010231 cover?

This subheading covers live buffalo, specifically those of the genus Bubalus. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes domestic buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and other buffalo species. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm that this classification is for live animals intended for breeding, slaughter, or other purposes, excluding those already processed or prepared.

What falls outside HS 010231?

The following products are excluded from HS 010231: live cattle (HS 010221-010229), live sheep and goats (HS 0104), live swine (HS 0103), and other live animals not of the genus Bubalus. Also excluded are buffalo meat (HS 0202), buffalo products such as milk or hides (classified in Chapters 04 and 41 respectively), and any buffalo that are deceased or have been processed in any way, as these fall under different HS headings based on their condition and form.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 010231?

A common error is misclassifying buffalo meat or other buffalo products under this subheading. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify other bovine species or hybrid animals as buffalo, failing to adhere to the specific genus requirement of HS 010231, which is strictly for the genus Bubalus.

How should importers classify products under HS 010231?

The correct procedure for classifying live buffalo under HS 010231 involves confirming the animal's genus is Bubalus. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Chapter 01. Verification of the animal's species and origin documentation is crucial to ensure accurate declaration and avoid potential penalties or delays.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 010231?

A consignment of 10 live domestic buffalo weighing a total of 5,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $20,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,000. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($20,000 USD × 0.02 = $1,000). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 010231?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 010231. For example, under the USMCA, buffalo originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a 0% duty rate upon presentation of a valid Certificate of Origin. Similarly, certain developing countries may benefit from preferential rates under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), often requiring a GSP Form A. Documentation requirements vary by jurisdiction and agreement.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 010221 HS 010229 HS 010239 HS 010631 HS 010290 HS 010410

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 0102.31 (Buffalo)?

For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for live buffalo (HS 0102.31) is Free. Many preferential trade agreements also offer duty-free entry. For example, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, buffalo imported from Australia are eligible for duty-free treatment. Always verify the specific origin and applicable trade agreement for the most accurate duty assessment.

How is the import duty for live buffalo (HS 0102.31) calculated?

The duty for live buffalo under HS 0102.31 is typically assessed on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value) or as a specific rate per head. For instance, if the MFN duty rate were 3.5% ad valorem and the declared value of a shipment of buffalo was $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.035 = $350. However, for HS 0102.31, the MFN rate is Free, meaning the duty calculation results in $0.00.

What documentation is typically required for importing live buffalo under HS code 0102.31?

Importers and customs brokers should be prepared to provide an import permit from the relevant veterinary or agricultural authorities (e.g., USDA APHIS in the US), a health certificate issued by the exporting country's competent authority, a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Specific requirements can vary based on the importing country's regulations and the animal's origin.

Are there specific classification criteria that distinguish live buffalo (HS 0102.31) from other live bovine animals?

Yes, HS code 0102.31 specifically covers 'Buffalo' (Bubalus bubalis). This distinguishes them from other bovine animals such as cattle (Bos taurus, Bos indicus) which fall under HS 0102.21-0102.29. The classification relies on the zoological identification of the animal. Importers must ensure the correct species is declared to avoid misclassification and potential penalties.

Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for live buffalo (HS 0102.31) into the United States?

The United States has several Free Trade Agreements that could impact duty rates for live buffalo. For example, the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement provides for duty-free entry for buffalo originating from Australia. While the MFN rate is already Free, these agreements are crucial for confirming origin and ensuring compliance with any specific procedural requirements associated with preferential treatment.