HS 030236 Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii)
Quick Answer: Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) imported under HS 030236 enters the UK at 20.00%, the EU at 22.00%, and the US duty-free. This classification specifically covers frozen southern bluefin tuna, a highly prized species for sashimi and sushi markets. Importers should be aware of potential quota restrictions or specific import licenses that may apply in certain jurisdictions, particularly for wild-caught species. According to CustomTariffs data, while US entry is duty-free, significant ad valorem duties apply in the UK and EU, impacting landed costs. Exporters should verify destination-specific regulations to ensure smooth clearance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302360000 | — | — | — |
| 0302361000 | — | — | — |
| 0302369000 | 20.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302360000 | — | — | — |
| 0302361000 | — | — | — |
| 0302369000 | 22.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302360000 | 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 030236 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 0302 specifically pertains to fish, fresh or chilled. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this specific code is dedicated to this particular species of tuna, distinguishing it from other tuna species or preparations. This classification ensures accurate tariff application for this commercially significant marine species.
What falls outside HS 030236?
The following products are excluded from HS 030236: frozen Southern bluefin tuna, which would typically be classified under HS 0303; Southern bluefin tuna that has been cooked, salted, dried, or smoked, as these processing methods necessitate classification under different headings such as 0304 or 0305; and other species of tuna, such as yellowfin or albacore, which are classified under distinct subheadings within Heading 0302. For instance, fresh or chilled yellowfin tuna is classified under HS 030231.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030236?
A common error is misidentifying the species of tuna, leading to incorrect classification. For example, classifying other bluefin tuna species, such as Atlantic bluefin (Thunnus thynnus) or Pacific bluefin (Thunnus orientalis), under this specific subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers must be certain of the exact species to ensure adherence to the WCO HS nomenclature and avoid misclassification penalties.
How should importers classify products under HS 030236?
The correct procedure for classifying Southern bluefin tuna under HS 030236 involves verifying the species of the fish and its condition. Importers and customs brokers must consult official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and confirm that the product is indeed fresh or chilled Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii). Obtaining a species-specific certificate of origin or detailed product specifications from the supplier is crucial for accurate declaration and compliance.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030236?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh Southern 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 duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 030236.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030236?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030236, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide duty-free entry for qualifying tuna originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible tuna from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030236, Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii), into the United States?
For imports into the United States, HS code 030236, covering Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii), typically has a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of Free. However, it is crucial to verify current rates with the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule, as rates can change. Preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may also apply, potentially reducing or eliminating duties if originating from a partner country.
How is the import duty for Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) under HS 030236 calculated in the EU?
In the European Union, HS code 030236 for Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) generally carries a duty rate of 0% ad valorem. This means the duty is calculated as a percentage of the customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of Southern bluefin tuna has a customs value of €10,000, the duty would be €10,000 * 0% = €0. It is essential to consult the EU's TARIC database for the most up-to-date and specific duty rates, as these can be influenced by quotas, suspensions, or other trade measures.
What specific documentation is required when importing Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) under HS 030236 into the UK?
When importing Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) under HS code 030236 into the United Kingdom, standard customs documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, importers must ensure compliance with specific regulations for fishery products. This may include a catch certificate or landing declaration to prove the legal origin and traceability of the tuna, as mandated by regulations such as the EU's IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing regulations, which the UK continues to enforce. Always refer to the UK Trade Tariff for the most precise requirements.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 030236 (Southern bluefin tuna) under major trade agreements affecting the US market?
While the standard MFN rate for HS 030236 (Southern bluefin tuna) into the US is Free, importers should investigate potential benefits under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For instance, if the tuna originates from a country with an FTA with the US (e.g., Australia, Chile, or others), specific rules of origin must be met to qualify for preferential duty-free entry. Importers must obtain a certificate of origin from the exporting country and submit it to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Consult the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the specific FTA text for detailed eligibility criteria.
How does the World Customs Organization (WCO) guide the classification of Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) under HS code 030236?
The WCO's Harmonized System (HS) Explanatory Notes provide guidance for classifying goods. For HS code 030236, which specifically covers 'Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii)', the classification is based on the species identification. The WCO framework ensures consistent global classification. Importers and customs brokers must ensure that the product being imported is indeed Southern bluefin tuna and not another species of tuna, which would fall under different subheadings within Chapter 03. Verification may involve scientific identification or documentation from the supplier confirming the species.