HS 030191 Other live fish
Quick Answer: Live fish, other than ornamental fish, imported under HS 030191 enter the US duty-free, the EU at 12.00% ad valorem, and the UK at rates ranging from 8.00% to 12.00% ad valorem. This classification covers a broad spectrum of live fish not specifically listed elsewhere, excluding ornamental species. Importers should be aware that specific subheadings within these jurisdictions may apply depending on the species and intended use, potentially affecting final duty rates. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of precise classification for compliance and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0301910000 | — | — | — |
| 0301911000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 0301919000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0301919011 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0301919019 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0301919011 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0301919019 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0301919090 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0301910000 | — | — | — |
| 0301911000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0301910000 | 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 030191 cover?
This subheading covers live fish, excluding ornamental fish, that are not specified in subheading 030191. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses a broad range of live fish intended for purposes other than aquaria, such as for consumption or stocking. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to live fish that do not fall under specific categories like goldfish or other ornamental species, and are not already classified in preceding subheadings of 0301.
What falls outside HS 030191?
The following products are excluded from HS 030191: live ornamental fish, such as goldfish (Carassius auratus) and koi (Cyprinus rubrofuscus), which are classified under 030111. Additionally, live fish intended for scientific research or breeding programs may have specific classifications. Products that are no longer alive, such as chilled or frozen fish, are classified under Chapter 03 but in different headings (e.g., 0302 for fresh or chilled fish, 0303 for frozen fish). Dead fish, even if intended for consumption, are not covered by this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030191?
A common error is misclassifying live ornamental fish, such as brightly colored tropical fish or specific species bred for aquariums, under 030191 instead of the correct subheading for ornamental fish (030111). This mistake often arises from a lack of detailed knowledge of the specific species and their intended use. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, emphasizing the importance of precise product identification.
How should importers classify products under HS 030191?
The correct procedure for classifying live fish under HS 030191 involves a thorough examination of the product's species, its intended use, and whether it meets the exclusion criteria for ornamental fish. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and cross-reference with the WCO HS Nomenclature. Verifying the scientific name and confirming the fish are not classified as ornamental is crucial for accurate declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030191?
A shipment of 100 kg of live Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) intended for aquaculture, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for live fish not elsewhere specified (030191) in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 0% ad valorem. Therefore, the duty calculation is 0% × $500 USD = $0.00 USD. This rate is applicable for imports from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030191?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030191, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP, depending on the jurisdiction's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 0301.91 (Other live fish)?
Import duty rates for HS code 0301.91 vary significantly by importing country and trade agreements. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0%. However, preferential rates under agreements like the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) may also apply. In the European Union, the TARIC system shows a Common Customs Tariff (CCT) rate of 3.5% ad valorem for this code, with potential for reduced rates or suspensions under specific conditions. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.
How is the duty for HS code 0301.91 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 0301.91 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of live ornamental fish classified under 0301.91 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 3.5%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 * 0.035 = $350. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, but ad valorem is most common for this code. Always verify the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) in the destination country's tariff.
What specific criteria distinguish live fish classified under 0301.91 from other live fish categories?
HS code 0301.91 covers 'Other live fish' not specifically listed under preceding headings within Chapter 03 of the Harmonized System. This typically includes live fish intended for ornamental purposes (aquarium fish) or for stocking purposes, which are not wild-caught and intended for direct human consumption. It excludes live fish for aquaculture where specific subheadings might exist, or live fish of the families Salmonidae, Tunas, Swordfish, etc., which have their own dedicated HS codes. Classification relies on the species, intended use, and whether it falls under more specific HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing live fish under HS code 0301.91?
Importing live fish under HS code 0301.91 requires comprehensive documentation to ensure compliance with customs regulations and animal health standards. Essential documents usually include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. Crucially, importers must also obtain health certificates issued by the competent veterinary authorities of the exporting country, attesting that the fish are free from diseases. Depending on the importing country, permits from wildlife or fisheries authorities, and potentially CITES permits if the species are listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, may also be necessary. Importers should consult the destination country's import regulations for live animals.
Which major trade agreements commonly impact the duty rates for HS code 0301.91, and how can importers leverage them?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS code 0301.91. For example, within the United States, the CAFTA-DR agreement offers preferential duty treatment for goods originating from member countries. In Europe, the EU's network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries can lead to reduced or zero duties. Importers can leverage these agreements by ensuring their live fish meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant FTA. This typically involves obtaining a certificate of origin or a declaration of origin from the exporter. Verifying eligibility and obtaining the correct documentation is key to benefiting from preferential duty rates and reducing overall import costs.