HS 030194 Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus, Thunnus orientalis)
Quick Answer: Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna imported under HS 030194 enters the UK at 16.00%, the EU at 16.00%, and the US duty-free. This Harmonized System (HS) code specifically covers live Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) and live Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis). Importers should be aware that while US duties are preferential, significant tariffs apply in the EU and UK. Due diligence regarding the origin and potential import restrictions for these high-value species is crucial. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0301940000 | — | — | — |
| 0301941000 | 16.00 % | — | — |
| 0301949000 | 16.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0301940000 | 16.00 % | — | — |
| 0301949000 | 16.00 % | — | — |
| 0301941000 | 16.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0301940100 | 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 030194 cover?
This subheading covers live fish specifically identified as Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) and Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is for whole, live fish of these species, intended for aquaculture or restocking, and not for immediate consumption. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this specific scope, distinguishing them from other tuna species or processed forms.
What falls outside HS 030194?
The following products are excluded from HS 030194: live fish of other tuna species not specified, such as yellowfin or albacore tuna, which would fall under HS 030199. Also excluded are dead or chilled/frozen tuna (classified under HS 0303 or 0304), tuna products that have undergone any form of processing (e.g., canned, filleted, or smoked), and ornamental fish. Live fish intended for aquariums or scientific research, unless they are specifically Atlantic or Pacific bluefin tuna, would also be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030194?
A common error is misidentifying the species of tuna. Importers may incorrectly classify other live tuna species under this subheading, failing to adhere to the precise scientific names (Thunnus thynnus, Thunnus orientalis) stipulated by the WCO. Another mistake involves classifying live fish that are not strictly for aquaculture or restocking purposes, or confusing live fish with dead or processed fish, which are covered by different headings as per General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System.
How should importers classify products under HS 030194?
The correct procedure for classifying live Atlantic or Pacific bluefin tuna involves verifying the species identification against official scientific nomenclature and confirming the intended use is for aquaculture or restocking. Importers and customs brokers must consult the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to ensure the specific subheading 030194 is applicable. Documentation from the supplier detailing the species and condition of the fish is crucial for accurate declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030194?
A shipment of 100 kg of live Atlantic bluefin tuna, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). Note that specific duties may apply in some jurisdictions, and this example uses an ad valorem rate for illustration.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030194?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030194. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna from Canada or Mexico may enter the US duty-free. Similarly, if the product originates from a country with a GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) arrangement with the importing country, a reduced or zero duty rate might apply. Documentation such as a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a GSP Form A is typically required to claim these preferential rates.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the import duty rates for Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus, Thunnus orientalis) under HS code 030194?
The import duty rates for HS code 030194 vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 16.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For instance, imports from countries with an applicable FTA may enter duty-free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information. The USITC website is a primary resource for U.S. tariff data.
How is the import duty for HS 030194 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 030194 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 16.00% and you import 1,000 kg of bluefin tuna with a declared customs value of $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Value × Duty Rate = $10,000 USD × 16.00% = $1,600 USD. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the importing country's customs authority.
What specific criteria are used to classify fish as Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna under HS code 030194?
HS code 030194 specifically covers live fish of the species Thunnus thynnus (Atlantic bluefin tuna) and Thunnus orientalis (Pacific bluefin tuna). Classification relies on accurate species identification, typically confirmed through scientific documentation, import permits, or expert verification. Importers must ensure that the fish being imported are indeed of these specified bluefin tuna species and not other tuna species, which would fall under different HS codes. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides guidance on species identification for tariff purposes.
What documentation is typically required for importing live Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna under HS code 030194?
Importing live Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna under HS code 030194 often requires specific documentation beyond standard customs declarations. This may include a valid import permit issued by the relevant fisheries or wildlife authority of the importing country, health certificates from the country of origin, and potentially CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) permits if the species is listed and trade is regulated. Importers and customs brokers should verify these requirements with the destination country's customs and environmental agencies.
Are there any common trade agreements that provide preferential duty rates for HS code 030194, and how can importers leverage them?
Yes, several trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry, for HS code 030194. For example, the United States has FTAs with countries like Australia, Chile, and South Korea. If Atlantic or Pacific bluefin tuna originates from a country with an applicable FTA with the importing nation, importers can claim preferential treatment. To do so, they must possess a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) issued by the exporting country's competent authority, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the FTA. Consulting the official trade agreement text and the importing country's customs regulations is essential for proper claim procedures.