HS 030256 Blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou, Micromesistius australis)
Quick Answer: Blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou, Micromesistius australis) imported under HS 030256 enters the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 7.50%, and the US at 3% under the MFN rate. This code specifically covers frozen fillets of blue whiting. Importers should note that the US offers duty-free entry for certain trading partners under specific agreements. According to CustomTariffs data, variations in duty rates across these major markets necessitate careful planning for international trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302560000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0302560010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0302560020 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302560020 | 7.50 % | — | — |
| 0302560000 | 7.50 % | — | — |
| 0302560010 | 7.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 030256 | — | — | — |
| 0302561100 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 0302565000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 0302.56?
Imports of Blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou, Micromesistius australis) may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 030256 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled fish of the species Blue whiting, scientifically identified as *Micromesistius poutassou* and *Micromesistius australis*. As per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to the whole fish, whether or not filleted, but not including livers, roes, or milt. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the European Union's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the specific biological classification of the fish.
What falls outside HS 030256?
The following products are excluded from HS 030256: frozen blue whiting (classified under HS 0303), prepared or preserved blue whiting (e.g., canned, smoked, or dried, which fall under HS Chapter 16), and fish of other species, even if they resemble blue whiting. For instance, cod or haddock, while also white fish, are classified under different subheadings within Heading 0302 based on their distinct species identification, adhering to the principle of specific nomenclature.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030256?
A common error is misclassifying frozen blue whiting as fresh or chilled under HS 030256. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 dictates that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. Frozen fish, regardless of species, is explicitly covered by HS Heading 0303. Importers often overlook the critical distinction between the temperature state of the fish, leading to incorrect duty assessments.
How should importers classify products under HS 030256?
The correct procedure for classifying blue whiting under HS 030256 involves confirming the species and its condition. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed *Micromesistius poutassou* or *Micromesistius australis* and that it is presented in a fresh or chilled state. Reviewing the accompanying commercial documentation, such as invoices and packing lists, alongside the physical characteristics of the goods is crucial for accurate declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030256?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh blue whiting, 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 customs value ($3,000 USD × 0.05 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which specifies the applicable tariffs for imported goods.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030256?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030256. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating blue whiting from Canada or Mexico may enter the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Similarly, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) could offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam, often requiring a certificate of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the applicable import duty rates for HS code 030256 (Blue whiting)?
The import duty rates for HS code 030256 (Blue whiting) vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. For instance, under the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), certain developing countries may have duty-free access (indicated by 'Free (A*,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)'). The EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff also list specific rates, which can include ad valorem duties, specific duties, or a combination, often with preferential rates for partner countries. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the import duty for HS 030256 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS 030256 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of Blue whiting has a customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 6.00%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.06 (Duty Rate) = $600 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or quantity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. It is crucial to verify the exact calculation method and applicable rates in the destination country's tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030256?
HS code 030256 specifically covers 'Blue whiting' (scientific names: Micromesistius poutassou, Micromesistius australis). The primary classification criterion is the species of fish. The product must be fresh or chilled fish of these specific species. Frozen blue whiting falls under a different HS code (0303). The classification is based on the internationally recognized nomenclature of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and national tariff schedules. Importers must ensure that the species declared accurately matches the biological identification of the fish being imported.
What documentation is typically required for importing HS code 030256?
Standard import documentation for HS code 030256 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the origin of the goods, additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and a catch certificate or similar declaration from the exporting country's fisheries authority to verify the origin and legality of the catch. Health certificates or phytosanitary certificates may also be necessary to comply with food safety and animal health regulations. Always consult the importing country's customs authority for a comprehensive list of required documentation.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 030256?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 030256. For example, the U.S. has agreements like the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Chile, South Korea, and Australia, which may offer reduced or zero duties on eligible Blue whiting imports if rules of origin are met. The European Union's TARIC system details preferential rates for countries with which the EU has association or free trade agreements. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff outlines preferential rates for goods imported from countries with which the UK has trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers should verify the specific terms and rules of origin for any applicable trade agreement in the destination country.