HS 030231 Tunas (of the genus Thunnus), skipjack tuna (stripe-bellied bonito) (Katsuwonus pelamis), excluding edible fish offal of subheadings 0302 91 to 0302 99
Quick Answer: Tunas (of the genus Thunnus) and skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), excluding edible fish offal, imported under HS 030231 enter the UK at 20.00%, the EU at 22.00%, and the US duty-free. This classification specifically covers fresh or chilled whole fish and fillets of these species. Importers should be aware of potential variations in national tariff rates and any specific import requirements, such as health certificates, which can be cross-referenced using resources like CustomTariffs. Understanding these rates is crucial for accurate duty calculation and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302310000 | — | — | — |
| 0302311000 | — | — | — |
| 0302319000 | 20.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302310000 | — | — | — |
| 0302311000 | — | — | — |
| 0302319000 | 22.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302310000 | 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 030231 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled fish of the species Tunas (of the genus Thunnus), specifically including skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this classification applies to whole fish or fish fillets that are not processed beyond chilling. The genus Thunnus encompasses several commercially important tuna species, all falling under this specific code when presented in their fresh or chilled state.
What falls outside HS 030231?
The following products are excluded from HS 030231: edible fish offal of subheadings 0302 91 to 0302 99, which includes items like livers and roes. Furthermore, any tuna or skipjack tuna that has been frozen, dried, salted, smoked, or otherwise processed beyond the fresh or chilled state would be classified under different headings. For instance, frozen tuna would fall under HS 0303, and canned tuna would be classified in Chapter 16.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030231?
A common error is misclassifying tuna products that have undergone minimal processing. For example, if tuna is lightly salted for preservation but not fully cured, it might be incorrectly entered under 030231 instead of a more appropriate heading for preserved fish. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (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 to avoid such mistakes.
How should importers classify products under HS 030231?
The correct procedure for classifying tuna and skipjack tuna under HS 030231 involves verifying the species and the state of presentation. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the fish belongs to the genus Thunnus or is specifically skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) and that it is presented in a fresh or chilled condition. Reviewing the product's packaging, invoices, and any scientific documentation confirming the species is essential for accurate declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030231?
A shipment of 1,000 kg of fresh skipjack tuna, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty of $100.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate of 2.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 2.0% × $5,000 USD = $100.00. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 0302.31.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030231?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030231. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), tuna originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for duty-free entry. Similarly, certain developing countries may benefit from preferential rates under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), potentially reducing duties to Free. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a specific certificate of origin, depending on the agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030231 (Tunas and Skipjack Tuna)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 030231, covering fresh or chilled tunas (of the genus Thunnus) and skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), is typically Free. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For instance, under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), certain developing countries may benefit from reduced or zero duties. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and any applicable trade agreements to determine the exact duty rate.
How is the import duty for HS 030231 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 030231 depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (based on value) or specific (based on quantity), or a combination. For example, if the MFN duty rate were 5% ad valorem and the declared customs value of a shipment of fresh skipjack tuna is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: 5% of $10,000 = $500. If there were a specific duty component, such as $0.20 per kilogram, and the shipment weighed 5,000 kg, the specific duty would be 5,000 kg * $0.20/kg = $1,000. The total duty would be the sum of any ad valorem and specific duties. For HS 030231, the MFN rate is Free, so the duty calculation would result in $0 unless specific duties or other fees apply.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 030231?
Importing fresh or chilled tuna and skipjack tuna under HS code 030231 generally requires a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates. Health certificates or phytosanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country are often required to ensure the fish is fit for human consumption and meets sanitary and phytosanitary standards. Importers should also be aware of any specific import licenses or permits mandated by the importing country's fisheries or food safety agencies.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030231, and what distinguishes it from other tuna HS codes?
HS code 030231 specifically covers fresh or chilled 'tunas (of the genus Thunnus)' and 'skipjack tuna (stripe-bellied bonito) (Katsuwonus pelamis)'. The genus Thunnus includes species like albacore, bluefin, and yellowfin tuna. The key classification criteria are the species of fish and its condition (fresh or chilled). This code excludes edible fish offal. It is distinct from other HS codes within Chapter 03 that may cover different fish species, frozen tuna, or prepared/preserved tuna products. For example, HS code 030232 covers other fish of the families Scombridae and generally excludes tunas, while HS code 0303 covers frozen fish, and Chapter 16 covers prepared or preserved fish.
Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 030231, and how can importers verify eligibility?
Several trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 030231. For example, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Canada (USMCA) and Mexico, which may provide duty-free entry for qualifying tuna products. The European Union has Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and Association Agreements with various countries that could offer preferential access. To verify eligibility, importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the specific trade agreement. This certificate should be presented to customs authorities at the time of import. Consulting the official tariff database of the importing country (e.g., USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU's TARIC database, UK's Trade Tariff) and reviewing the text of the relevant trade agreement are essential steps.