HS 030259 Other
Quick Answer: Fish imported under HS 030259 enters the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 12.00%, and the US at 3% under the MFN rate. This classification covers other fish, not elsewhere specified, that are fresh or chilled, excluding fillets and other fish meat. Importers should note that specific subheadings within this code may exist in different jurisdictions, leading to varied duty rates. For instance, the US offers duty-free entry for certain trade partners under this code. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist in accurate declarations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302593000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0302594000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0302599000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0302590000 | — | — | — |
| 0302591000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302591000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0302591090 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0302593000 | 7.50 % | — | — |
| 0302590000 | — | — | — |
| 0302591010 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302591100 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 030259 | — | — | — |
| 03025950 | Free | — | — |
| 0302595010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0302595090 | — | — | ["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 0302.59?
Imports of Other 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 030259 cover?
This subheading covers other fish, fresh or chilled, not elsewhere specified within heading 0302, excluding fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is for whole fish or pieces of fish that do not fit into more specific classifications within heading 0302, such as specific species or preparations. For instance, the USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database would direct importers to this code for unlisted species of fish that are fresh or chilled and not processed beyond simple preservation.
What falls outside HS 030259?
The following products are excluded from HS 030259: fish that are frozen, dried, salted, or in brine (which fall under heading 0303 or 0305), fish fillets and other fish meat (heading 0304), and fish roe (heading 0302.90). Also excluded are fish that have undergone cooking, smoking, or other substantial processing. For example, canned sardines, smoked salmon, or fish cakes would not be classified under this subheading, as they are considered more processed goods and fall into different HS chapters or headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030259?
A common error is misclassifying processed fish products as fresh or chilled under this subheading. For instance, fish that have been lightly cured or marinated, even if still refrigerated, may be considered "prepared or preserved" and thus fall under heading 1604, not 0302. Furthermore, confusion can arise with specific species that have their own subheadings within 0302; failing to identify these specific species and instead defaulting to the "other" category is a frequent mistake, violating General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and 6 which prioritize specific descriptions.
How should importers classify products under HS 030259?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030259 involves a thorough examination of the product's form and condition. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the fish is fresh or chilled and not otherwise specified in heading 0302. Consulting the official WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial. If the product is not a fillet, not frozen, and not a specific species listed elsewhere in 0302, then 030259 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030259?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh, whole mackerel (not otherwise specified in heading 0302) declared at a customs value of $3,000 USD would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($3,000 USD × 0.05 = $150.00). This calculation assumes no other duties or taxes apply and that the product is not eligible for preferential treatment under any trade agreement.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030259?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030259, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for eligible goods originating from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific certificate of origin for CPTPP, depending on the jurisdiction'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 typical import duty rates for HS code 030259, and how do preferential rates apply?
HS code 030259 covers 'Other' fish, fresh or chilled, not elsewhere specified. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule might list a rate of 6.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, imports from countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), or South Korea (KR) under specific FTAs may be eligible for duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the origin of the goods and the relevant trade agreement.
What specific criteria determine if a fish product falls under HS code 030259 ('Other')?
HS code 030259 is a residual category for fish, fresh or chilled, that are not specifically classified under other subheadings of heading 0302. This means that if a particular species or type of fish, fresh or chilled, does not have a more specific HS code within chapter 0302 (e.g., specific species like cod, haddock, or flatfish, or forms like fillets), it will be classified under 030259. Classification relies on the absence of a more precise description in the Harmonized System nomenclature. Importers must ensure that the product does not fit into any other more specific classification before assigning 030259.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 030259?
Standard import documentation for fresh or chilled fish under HS code 030259 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the importing country's regulations and the type of fish, a sanitary or phytosanitary (SPS) certificate from the exporting country's competent authority may be required to demonstrate compliance with health and safety standards. A certificate of origin is essential if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Importers should consult the specific import requirements of the destination country's customs authority.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 030259, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 030259 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 6.00% and a shipment of fish valued at $10,000 USD arrives, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.06 (Duty Rate) = $600 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit of weight or volume) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. It is crucial to verify the exact duty calculation method and rate applicable in the importing country's tariff schedule.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 030259, and what are the implications?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 030259. For instance, agreements like the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) or the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) might offer reduced or zero duty rates for qualifying fish products originating from member countries. The implication is a significant reduction in import costs. To benefit, importers must ensure the fish originates from a partner country, meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement, and possess a valid certificate of origin. Examples of countries with potential preferential access often include those listed with 'Free' rates, such as Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and others depending on the specific importing nation's trade portfolio.