HS 020500 Fresh or chilled
Quick Answer: Meat of horses, asses, mules or hinnies, fresh or chilled, imported under HS 020500 enters the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 5.10%, and the US duty-free. This classification specifically pertains to the fresh or chilled meat of equidae. Importers should be aware that while the US offers duty-free entry, the UK and EU apply ad valorem duties. According to CustomTariffs data, these rates are generally consistent across subheadings within this code, but it is crucial to verify the exact rate applicable to the specific product and origin. Exporters should prepare documentation reflecting the precise nature of the meat to ensure accurate classification and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0205002000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 0205008000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0205002000 | 5.10 % | — | — |
| 0205008000 | 5.10 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0205000000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 020500 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled meat of horses, asses, mules, or hinnies. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is specifically for edible meat from these equidae species that has not undergone any preservation process beyond chilling. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, excluding any meat that has been frozen, salted, dried, or otherwise preserved.
What falls outside HS 020500?
The following products are excluded from HS 020500: meat of horses, asses, mules, or hinnies that has been frozen, even if it is subsequently thawed; meat that has undergone any form of preservation such as salting, drying, smoking, or cooking; edible offal of these animals, which are classified under different headings; and meat from other animal species, such as bovine or porcine meat, which are classified in preceding headings of Chapter 02.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 020500?
A common error is the misclassification of frozen meat of horses, asses, mules, or hinnies as fresh or chilled. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System mandates that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Frozen meat, even if thawed, is considered "frozen" for classification purposes and would fall under a different subheading, typically within heading 0202 or 0206 for bovine or swine meat, or a specific subheading for frozen equidae meat if available in the tariff schedule.
How should importers classify products under HS 020500?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 020500 involves first confirming that the meat is indeed from horses, asses, mules, or hinnies and that it is in a fresh or chilled state, not frozen or otherwise preserved. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to verify the precise definition and any specific notes. Accurate product descriptions and supporting documentation, like veterinary certificates, are crucial for correct classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 020500?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh horse meat declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,000.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 20% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 0205.00.00. The calculation is: 20% of $5,000 USD = $1,000.00. This rate applies to the declared customs value of the goods.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 020500?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 020500, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, preferential rates may be available under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries, potentially offering a reduced duty rate or Free entry. Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a GSP Form A, depending on the origin country and the specific trade agreement provisions.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 020500 (Fresh or chilled meat of horses, asses, mules or hinnies)?
Import duty rates for HS code 020500 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may show different rates depending on origin and specific trade agreements. The UK Trade Tariff also lists specific rates. Always consult the relevant national tariff schedule for the most accurate and up-to-date rates applicable to your import destination.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 020500?
The duty for HS code 020500 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate in the US is 4.00% and you import 1,000 kg of fresh horse meat valued at $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: 4.00% of $5,000 USD = $200 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so it's crucial to check the specific tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 020500?
HS code 020500 specifically covers 'Meat of horses, asses, mules or hinnies, fresh or chilled.' The key classification criteria are: 1. Species: The meat must be from horses, asses, mules, or hinnies. Meat from other animals, even if similar, would be classified elsewhere. 2. Condition: The meat must be 'fresh or chilled.' Frozen meat, or meat that has been processed (e.g., cooked, salted, smoked), would fall under different HS codes. Chilled typically implies refrigeration below 0°C but above the freezing point of the meat.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 020500?
For HS code 020500, importers and customs brokers should be prepared to provide: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods. 2. Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package. 3. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: For transport documentation. 4. Import Permit/License: Many countries require specific permits for importing meat products due to sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regulations. This often includes health certificates issued by the exporting country's competent authority. 5. Country of Origin Certificate: To verify the source of the meat. Always verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.
Do trade agreements, such as Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), affect the duty rates for HS code 020500?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 020500. For example, if a country has an FTA with the exporting country, the meat may qualify for preferential duty rates, which could be lower than the standard MFN rate or even free. To benefit from these preferential rates, importers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the FTA. It is essential to consult the specific trade agreement and the importing country's customs regulations to determine eligibility and required documentation.