HS 030199 Other
Quick Answer: Live fish imported under HS 030199 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.00% (though some lines reach 16.00%), and the US duty-free. This residual classification applies to live fish not specifically listed under preceding headings within Chapter 03, such as ornamental fish or fish for aquaculture. Importers should verify the specific sub-classification and applicable duties for their particular species, as variations exist. According to CustomTariffs data, careful attention to the precise nature of the live fish is crucial for accurate customs declarations and duty payments across these jurisdictions.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0301990000 | — | — | — |
| 0301991100 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 0301991140 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 0301991180 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 0301991700 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0301990000 | — | — | — |
| 0301991100 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 0301991140 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 0301998500 | 16.00 % | — | — |
| 0301998510 | 16.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03019903 | Free | — | — |
| 0301990310 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0301990315 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0301990390 | — | — | ["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 030199 cover?
This subheading covers live fish, other than live fish of heading 0301, which includes ornamental fish and other live fish not specified in subheadings 030111 to 030191. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this residual category captures all live fish that do not fall under the more specific classifications within heading 0301, such as ornamental fish. For instance, live food fish intended for consumption that are not covered by prior subheadings would be classified here, provided they are live.
What falls outside HS 030199?
The following products are excluded from HS 030199: live ornamental fish (HS 030111 and 030119), live freshwater fish (HS 030191), and live fish for aquaculture or restocking that are specifically covered by other subheadings. Additionally, any fish that are no longer alive, such as chilled, frozen, or dried fish, are classified under Chapter 03 but in different headings (e.g., 0302, 0303, 0304). Products such as fish eggs (roe) or larvae are also typically classified separately.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030199?
A common error is misclassifying live fish intended for aquaculture or restocking when they are specifically provided for under other subheadings within heading 0301, or when they are not live. For example, classifying live food fish intended for immediate consumption under a subheading meant for ornamental fish would be incorrect. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, particularly GRI 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 030199?
The correct procedure for classifying live fish under HS 030199 involves a thorough examination of the product's characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the fish are live and then ascertain if they are ornamental or specifically listed in prior subheadings of 0301. If the live fish do not fit any of these more specific categories, and are not otherwise excluded, then HS 030199 is the appropriate classification. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU TARIC database, is essential.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030199?
A shipment of 100 kg of live tilapia, intended for consumption and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $50.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the customs value. The calculation is: 10% of $500 USD = $50.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) under subheading 030199.00.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030199?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030199, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide duty-free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for goods from member countries like Vietnam. Documentation required to claim preference typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP, depending on the importing country's regulations.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030199, and how are preferential rates applied?
HS code 030199 covers 'Other' live fish, excluding those specified in preceding subheadings of 0301. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the US is typically 2.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) like the one with Australia can reduce this to Free. Importers must verify eligibility and provide necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential treatment. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for definitive rates.
What specific criteria determine if a live fish falls under the 'Other' category of HS 030199?
HS code 030199 is a residual category. Live fish are classified under this code if they are not specifically listed in the preceding subheadings of Chapter 0301. This includes species not explicitly mentioned in subheadings like 030111 (Ornamental freshwater fish) or 030119 (Other ornamental fish), or other specific categories if they exist. The classification hinges on the species' scientific and common names and its exclusion from more specific tariff lines. Referencing the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., HTSUS) is crucial for accurate determination.
What documentation is typically required for importing live fish classified under HS 030199?
Importing live fish under HS 030199 generally requires a Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, a commercial invoice, and a packing list. Crucially, importers must comply with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) regulations, which may necessitate a USFWS Import/Export Declaration (Form 3-177) and potentially permits depending on the species. Health certificates from the country of origin are often required to demonstrate the fish are free from disease. Customs brokers should verify all specific import permits and health requirements with the importing agency and the exporter.
How is the import duty for HS 030199 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS 030199 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 2.00% and you import live fish valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.02 (Duty Rate) = $200.00 USD. It is essential to use the correct customs value, which usually includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight to the port of entry. Always confirm the applicable duty rate and valuation rules with the HTSUS or a licensed customs broker.
Are there specific trade agreements that offer duty-free entry for live fish classified under HS 030199?
Yes, several trade agreements can offer duty-free entry for live fish under HS 030199. For instance, the United States has FTAs with countries like Australia, Chile, and Singapore, which may grant preferential duty rates, often Free, on certain agricultural and fishery products, including live fish. To benefit from these agreements, importers must ensure the fish originate from a qualifying country and possess a valid Certificate of Origin. Checking the specific provisions of each trade agreement and the HTSUS, particularly the 'Special Provisions' and country-specific duty lines, is necessary to confirm eligibility and requirements.