HS 030235 Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus, Thunnus orientalis)
Quick Answer: Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna imported under HS 030235 enters the UK at 20.00%, the EU at 22.00%, and the US duty-free. This HS code specifically covers fresh or chilled Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) and Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis). Importers should be aware that while the US offers duty-free entry, significant ad valorem duties apply in the UK and EU. These rates are subject to specific subheadings within the broader code, and compliance with all applicable regulations, including any potential quotas or import licenses, is crucial. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302350000 | — | — | — |
| 0302351100 | — | — | — |
| 0302351900 | 20.00 % | — | — |
| 0302359100 | — | — | — |
| 0302359900 | 20.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302350000 | — | — | — |
| 0302359900 | 22.00 % | — | — |
| 0302351100 | — | — | — |
| 0302351900 | 22.00 % | — | — |
| 0302359100 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302350100 | 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 030235 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna, scientifically identified as *Thunnus thynnus* and *Thunnus orientalis*, respectively. As per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to the whole fish or parts thereof, provided they are presented in a fresh or chilled state, not frozen or otherwise preserved. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm this scope, focusing on the specific species and their condition.
What falls outside HS 030235?
The following products are excluded from HS 030235: frozen bluefin tuna, which would be classified under HS 030345; bluefin tuna that has been smoked, dried, salted, or preserved in brine, oil, or other ways, falling under HS 0305; and bluefin tuna products that have undergone further processing, such as canned tuna (HS 1604) or tuna fillets breaded or battered. The key distinction is the state of preservation and the degree of processing, with only fresh or chilled whole fish or parts of these specific species falling under this code.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030235?
A common error is misclassifying bluefin tuna based on its origin or market name rather than its scientific identification and condition. For instance, tuna from different oceans might be mistakenly grouped if the importer does not verify the species. Furthermore, confusing fresh/chilled tuna with frozen (HS 0303) or processed forms (HS 1604) is frequent. 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.
How should importers classify products under HS 030235?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030235 involves confirming the species of tuna as either Atlantic bluefin (*Thunnus thynnus*) or Pacific bluefin (*Thunnus orientalis*) and verifying that the product is presented in a fresh or chilled state. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 0302. Accurate product documentation, including invoices and packing lists detailing species and condition, is essential.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030235?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh Atlantic bluefin tuna, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 10% = $1,500.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 030235.00.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030235?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030235, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, bluefin tuna originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for duty-free entry. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration or certificate of origin, as specified by USMCA rules, is required. Currently, there are no other major free trade agreements that would significantly reduce duties for this specific product from other key tuna-producing nations into major markets like the US or EU.
```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 HS code 030235 (Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 030235 varies by importing country. For example, the United States applies a 0% duty rate on fresh or chilled Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna. The European Union, under the TARIC system, generally has a 0% duty rate for this product. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists a 0% duty rate. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country at the time of import, as rates can change and preferential agreements may offer further reductions or duty-free access.
How is the import duty for HS 030235 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duties are typically calculated based on either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For HS 030235, duties are often 0% for many major markets. However, if a duty were applicable, let's assume a hypothetical scenario where a country applies a 5% ad valorem duty on a shipment of bluefin tuna valued at $10,000. The duty calculation would be: Duty = Value of Goods × Duty Rate = $10,000 × 5% = $500. If a specific duty applied, for instance, $0.50 per kilogram, and the shipment weighed 2,000 kg, the duty would be: Duty = Weight × Specific Duty Rate = 2,000 kg × $0.50/kg = $1,000. Always verify the applicable duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) and rate from the official tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required for importing Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna under HS 030235?
Beyond standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importing fish, especially species like bluefin tuna, often requires specific health and origin certifications. This may include a Catch Certificate or Certificate of Origin issued by the relevant national fisheries authority to verify the legality and traceability of the catch, complying with regulations against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Phytosanitary certificates are generally not applicable to fish, but health certificates may be required depending on the destination country's regulations. Importers should consult the destination country's customs and fisheries authorities for precise requirements.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 030235 through trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for HS 030235 through various trade agreements. For instance, countries that are signatories to Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may benefit from reduced or eliminated duties on bluefin tuna. For example, under certain FTAs, tuna products originating from partner countries might be eligible for duty-free entry into markets like the United States or the European Union. Importers must ensure that the bluefin tuna meets the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement to qualify for these preferential rates. This typically involves providing proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or a declaration by the exporter.
What are the key classification criteria to ensure correct HS code 030235 for Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna?
The primary classification criterion for HS 030235 is the species of tuna. This code specifically covers 'Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna' (Thunnus thynnus, Thunnus orientalis). It is essential to distinguish these species from other types of tuna (e.g., yellowfin, albacore) which fall under different HS codes within Chapter 03. The condition of the tuna (fresh, chilled, or frozen) is also critical; HS 0302 covers fish, fresh or chilled, while HS 0303 covers fish, frozen (excluding fish fillets). Therefore, if the bluefin tuna is frozen, it would be classified under HS 0303, not 0302. Verifying the species identification and the presentation (fresh/chilled vs. frozen) is paramount for accurate classification.