HS 030243 Sardines (Sardina pilchardus, Sardinops spp.), sardinella (Sardinella spp.), brisling or sprats (Sprattus sprattus)
Quick Answer: Sardines, sardinella, and brisling or sprats imported under HS code 030243 enter the UK at rates up to 20.00%, the EU at rates up to 23.00%, and the US at a rate of 2.2¢/kg. This classification specifically covers fresh or chilled fish of the species *Sardina pilchardus*, *Sardinops* spp., *Sardinella* spp., and *Sprattus sprattus*. Importers should note that while some tariff lines offer zero duty in the UK and EU, specific conditions or preferential trade agreements may apply. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the need for careful verification of the applicable duty rate based on origin and specific product presentation.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302430000 | — | — | — |
| 0302431000 | 20.00 % | — | — |
| 0302433000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0302439000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302430000 | — | — | — |
| 0302431000 | 23.00 % | — | — |
| 0302433000 | 15.00 % | — | — |
| 0302439000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302430000 | 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 030243 cover?
This subheading covers specific species of small, oily fish, commonly referred to as sardines, sardinella, and sprats. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes fish of the species *Sardina pilchardus*, *Sardinops spp.*, *Sardinella spp.*, and *Sprattus sprattus*. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm that these fish, when fresh, chilled, or frozen, fall under this classification, provided they meet the specific species criteria outlined in the nomenclature.
What falls outside HS 030243?
The following products are excluded from HS 030243: larger species of fish that might be colloquially referred to as sardines but do not belong to the specified scientific genera, such as mackerel (HS 030229). Also excluded are fish that have undergone processing beyond fresh, chilled, or frozen states, such as canned sardines (HS 160413) or smoked sprats (HS 030549). Fish that are not of the exact species listed, even if visually similar, will be classified under different subheadings within Heading 0302 or other chapters entirely.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030243?
A common error is misidentifying the species of fish. Importers may incorrectly classify fish as sardines or sprats when they are, in fact, a different species of small pelagic fish. This can lead to incorrect duty payments and potential penalties. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. It is crucial to verify the scientific name of the fish against the precise wording of the subheading and relevant explanatory notes.
How should importers classify products under HS 030243?
The correct procedure for classifying fish under HS 030243 involves a multi-step verification process. First, importers and customs brokers must confirm the exact species of fish being imported, ideally through scientific documentation or supplier declarations. Second, they must verify that the fish are presented in a fresh, chilled, or frozen state, as per the conditions of Heading 0302. Finally, they should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to confirm the specific subheading and any applicable notes or exclusions.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030243?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of frozen *Sardina pilchardus* (European pilchard) declared at a customs value of $3,000 USD would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem applied to the declared customs value ($3,000 USD × 0.05 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 0302.43.1000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030243?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030243, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide duty-free entry for qualifying fish originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible products 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 agreement and importing country's requirements.
```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 030243 (Sardines, Sardinella, Brisling or Sprats) into the United States?
For HS code 030243, the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate into the United States is 0.00% ad valorem. However, it is crucial for importers and customs brokers to verify if any preferential duty rates apply under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to which the United States is a party, as these could offer further benefits or specific conditions. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most current and accurate tariff information.
How is the duty for HS code 030243 calculated if a specific rate is applied, for example, 2.2¢/kg?
While the US HTSUS rate for 030243 is typically 0.00%, other countries may have different duty structures. If a duty were calculated at 2.2¢/kg, the process would involve multiplying the specific rate by the net weight of the imported goods in kilograms. For example, if an importer brings in 10,000 kg of sardines classified under this code and the duty rate is 2.2¢/kg (which is $0.022/kg), the total duty would be 10,000 kg * $0.022/kg = $220.00. It is essential to confirm the exact unit of measure and currency for any specific duty rate.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030243?
HS code 030243 specifically covers 'Sardines (Sardina pilchardus, Sardinops spp.), sardinella (Sardinella spp.), brisling or sprats (Sprattus sprattus)' when they are fresh or chilled, and not otherwise excluded by the Chapter 3 notes. The classification hinges on the correct scientific identification of the species. Importers and customs brokers must ensure that the fish imported precisely match the species listed in the HS nomenclature. Documentation such as species identification certificates or supplier declarations may be required to substantiate the classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 030243?
Standard documentation for importing fresh or chilled fish under HS code 030243 generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations, a certificate of origin may be necessary, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed. Furthermore, importers must comply with all relevant food safety and health regulations, which might necessitate import permits, health certificates issued by the exporting country's competent authority, and potentially specific declarations regarding the origin and handling of the fish. Always check the specific import requirements of the destination country.
Do trade agreements like the USMCA affect the duty rates for HS code 030243?
Trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates. For HS code 030243, if the sardines, sardinella, brisling, or sprats originate in a country that is a party to a Free Trade Agreement with the importing country (e.g., the United States), preferential duty rates, potentially including duty-free entry, may apply. To benefit from these agreements, importers and customs brokers must ensure that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin. Consulting the specific text of the trade agreement and the relevant national tariff schedule is crucial.