HS 030252 Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus)

Quick Answer: Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) imported under HS 030252 enters the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 7.50%, and the US at 2.2¢/kg (MFN). This classification specifically covers fresh or chilled whole haddock, excluding fillets or other meat. Importers should be aware that while the US offers a specific per-kilogram duty, the UK and EU apply ad valorem rates, meaning the duty is a percentage of the value of the goods. According to CustomTariffs data, these rates are subject to potential changes and specific trade agreements. Accurate valuation is crucial for calculating ad valorem duties, and precise weight is essential for the US duty calculation.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0302520000 6.00 % — —
0302520010 6.00 % — —
0302520090 6.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0302520000 7.50 % — —
0302520010 7.50 % — —
0302520090 7.50 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0302520000 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?

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What products does HS 030252 cover?

This subheading covers fresh or chilled fillets of haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), a specific species of cod-like fish. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 0302 pertains to fish, fresh or chilled, excluding fish fillets. Subheading 0302.52 specifically isolates haddock fillets. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this precise classification for this particular fish species in its fresh or chilled state.

What falls outside HS 030252?

The following products are excluded from HS 030252: frozen haddock fillets, which are classified under HS 0304; prepared or preserved haddock, such as smoked, salted, or canned, which fall under Chapter 16; and other fish species, even if they resemble haddock, such as pollock or cod, which have their own distinct HS codes. Additionally, whole haddock or haddock cuts other than fillets, even if fresh or chilled, are classified under different subheadings within Heading 0302.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 030252?

A common error is misclassifying haddock fillets based on their preparation method or preservation state. For instance, if haddock fillets are frozen, they must be classified under HS 0304. Similarly, if they are processed beyond simple chilling, such as being breaded or cooked, they would fall under Chapter 16. 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 these mistakes.

How should importers classify products under HS 030252?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030252 involves verifying the species of fish and its presentation. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the product is indeed haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) and that it is presented as fresh or chilled fillets. Reviewing product specifications, supplier documentation, and consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC are essential steps to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030252?

A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh haddock fillets, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 0302.52.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030252?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030252, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide duty-free entry for eligible haddock fillets originating from Canada or Mexico, requiring a self-certified origin statement. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible developing countries, often requiring a GSP Form A. The EU and UK also have various trade agreements that could offer preferential rates, typically requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 030364 HS 030472 HS 030253 HS 030255 HS 030254 HS 030247

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the standard import duty rates for Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) under HS code 030252 in major markets?

The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), classified under HS code 030252, vary by importing country. For example:

  • United States: The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) typically lists a duty rate of Free for fresh or chilled Haddock (0302.52.00).
  • European Union: The EU's TARIC database indicates a duty rate of 6.00% ad valorem for frozen Haddock under this code.
  • United Kingdom: The UK Trade Tariff shows a duty rate of 7.50% ad valorem for frozen Haddock.

It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country at the time of importation, as rates can change and may be subject to specific conditions or quotas.

How is the duty for HS code 030252 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty calculation for HS code 030252 depends on whether the rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of weight or quantity). For example, if frozen Haddock is imported into the UK, which has a rate of 7.50% ad valorem:

Assume an invoice value of $10,000 USD for 5,000 kg of frozen Haddock. First, convert the value to the local currency (e.g., GBP) using the customs valuation date's exchange rate. Let's say $10,000 USD = £8,000 GBP.

Duty Amount = Value × Duty Rate Duty Amount = £8,000 GBP × 7.50% Duty Amount = £600 GBP

If a specific duty rate applies, such as 2.2¢/kg (hypothetical for illustration), the calculation would be:

Duty Amount = Quantity × Specific Rate Duty Amount = 5,000 kg × $0.022 USD/kg Duty Amount = $110 USD

Always verify the applicable duty basis (ad valorem or specific) and the exact rate from the importing country's official tariff.

What documentation is typically required for importing Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) under HS code 030252?

Importing Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) under HS code 030252 generally requires several key documents to ensure compliance with customs regulations and food safety standards. These typically include:

  1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the seller, buyer, quantity, description of goods, unit price, total price, and currency.
  2. Packing List: Itemizing the contents of each package, including weights and dimensions.
  3. Bill of Lading (Ocean) or Air Waybill (Air): Serving as a contract of carriage and receipt for the goods.
  4. Certificate of Origin: To determine eligibility for preferential duty rates under trade agreements.
  5. Catch Certificate or Landing Certificate (often required for fish): Verifying the origin of the fish from legal fishing activities.
  6. Health Certificate or Phytosanitary Certificate: Issued by the competent authority of the exporting country, confirming the fish is fit for human consumption and meets health standards.
  7. Import Permit/License: May be required by the importing country's fisheries or food safety authorities.

Importers and customs brokers must confirm the precise documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.

Are there preferential duty rates available for Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) under HS code 030252 through trade agreements?

Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) under HS code 030252 if the product originates from countries that have signed Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or other preferential trade arrangements with the importing country. For example:

  • European Union: The EU has agreements with various countries (e.g., Canada, Norway, Switzerland) that might offer reduced or zero duty rates on fish products, provided the rules of origin are met.
  • United States: The US has FTAs with countries like Canada, Mexico, Australia, and others, which could impact duty rates on imported seafood.

To claim preferential treatment, importers must typically provide a valid Certificate of Origin or other proof of origin as stipulated by the specific trade agreement. It is essential to consult the relevant trade agreement text and the importing country's customs regulations to confirm eligibility and the required documentation.

What are the classification criteria for Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) under HS code 030252, and what distinguishes it from similar fish?

HS code 030252 specifically covers 'Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus)' when imported fresh or chilled. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System nomenclature relies on precise scientific and common names for classification. Haddock is a distinct species of cod found in the North Atlantic, characterized by a prominent dark lateral line and a small barbel on its chin.

Key distinguishing features from other similar fish often classified under Chapter 03 include:

  • Species Identification: The scientific name Melanogrammus aeglefinus is the primary identifier. Common names can sometimes be ambiguous, so relying on the scientific name or detailed product specifications is crucial.
  • Distinction from Cod (Gadus morhua): While both are groundfish, Haddock has a more pronounced lateral line and a different body shape. Cod lacks the prominent barbel on the chin.
  • Distinction from Pollock (Pollachius spp.): Pollock typically has three dorsal fins and two anal fins, whereas Haddock has three dorsal and two anal fins, but the overall body shape and lateral line differ.

Importers must ensure the product is indeed Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) and not another species. Misclassification can lead to incorrect duty payments and potential penalties. If there is any doubt, consulting expert resources or requesting a binding ruling from the importing country's customs authority is recommended.