HS 030272 Catfish (Pangasius spp., Silurus spp., Clarias spp., Ictalurus spp.)
Quick Answer: Catfish (Pangasius spp., Silurus spp., Clarias spp., Ictalurus spp.) imported under HS 030272 enters the UK and EU at 8.00% ad valorem, and the US with varied rates from Free to 25% depending on origin. This HS code specifically covers fresh or chilled catfish, excluding fillets and other meat of fish. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities between major trading blocs. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these specific rates and origin-based preferences is crucial for accurate customs declarations and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302720000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302720000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302725004 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0302721100 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 030272 | — | — | — |
| 03027250 | Free | — | — |
| 0302725001 | — | — | ["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 0302.72?
Imports of Catfish (Pangasius spp., Silurus spp., Clarias spp., Ictalurus spp.) 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 030272 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled catfish, specifically those belonging to the genera *Pangasius spp.*, *Silurus spp.*, *Clarias spp.*, and *Ictalurus spp.*. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is for whole fish or fish fillets that have not undergone any preservation process beyond chilling. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm this scope, ensuring consistent international trade classification for these specific species of catfish.
What falls outside HS 030272?
The following products are excluded from HS 030272: frozen catfish, which would be classified under HS 0303; prepared or preserved catfish (e.g., smoked, salted, dried, or canned), which fall into Chapter 16; and live catfish, classified under HS 0106. Additionally, fish that are not specifically listed within the *Pangasius*, *Silurus*, *Clarias*, or *Ictalurus* genera, even if commonly referred to as catfish, will not be classified here, requiring careful species identification to avoid misclassification.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030272?
A common error is the misclassification of processed catfish products as fresh or chilled. For instance, vacuum-sealed catfish fillets that have been lightly brined for preservation, even if still requiring refrigeration, may be considered "prepared" and thus fall under Chapter 16. Another mistake involves confusing different species of catfish; only those explicitly named in the subheading, such as Pangasius (often sold as basa or swai), Silurus, Clarias, and Ictalurus, are covered. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 030272?
The correct procedure for classifying catfish under HS 030272 involves a meticulous review of the product's form and preservation method. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm the species of catfish, verifying it belongs to one of the specified genera. Next, they must ascertain if the product is fresh or chilled, and not frozen, prepared, or live. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, and cross-referencing with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes provides definitive guidance.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030272?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh Pangasius fillets, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 3.5% × $5,000 = $175.00. This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 030272.9000 (for fillets).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030272?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030272, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating catfish from Mexico or Canada can enter the United States duty-free. The documentation required to claim this preference is typically a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin, depending on the specific circumstances and value of the goods, provided the goods meet the rules of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 030272 (Catfish)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 030272 (Catfish) is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, imports from countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) may enter duty-free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. Always refer to official sources such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC database, or the UK Trade Tariff for the most current and accurate rates.
How is HS code 030272 defined, and what specific species of catfish are covered?
HS code 030272 specifically covers 'Catfish (Pangasius spp., Silurus spp., Clarias spp., Ictalurus spp.)'. This means the classification applies to fresh or chilled fish belonging to the scientific genera Pangasius (e.g., Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, commonly known as Swai or Pangasius catfish), Silurus, Clarias (e.g., African catfish), and Ictalurus (e.g., Channel catfish). Importers must ensure that the imported product accurately matches these scientific classifications. Misclassification can lead to penalties and delays. Verification may require product documentation, scientific names, or even species identification reports.
What documentation is typically required for importing catfish under HS code 030272?
Standard documentation for importing fresh or chilled fish under HS code 030272 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. Additionally, depending on the importing country's regulations and the product's origin, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if claiming preferential duty rates. Health certificates or phytosanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country are often mandatory to ensure the fish is safe for human consumption and free from diseases. Importers should verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
How is the import duty for HS code 030272 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 030272 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and you import 1,000 kg of catfish with a customs value of $5 per kg, the total customs value is $5,000 (1,000 kg * $5/kg). The import duty would then be $400 (8.00% of $5,000). Some countries may also have specific additional duties or taxes applicable. Always confirm the basis of valuation and the exact duty rate with the official tariff schedule.
Which trade agreements commonly offer reduced or zero duty rates for catfish (HS 030272)?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 030272. For instance, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Australia (AU) which may offer duty-free access for eligible catfish products. The European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and various Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) also offer reduced or zero duties for goods originating from developing countries. Importers must ensure their product meets the Rules of Origin criteria stipulated in each specific trade agreement to benefit from these preferential rates. Consulting the relevant trade agreement text and the importing country's customs authority is essential.