HS 030283 Toothfish (Dissostichus spp.)
Quick Answer: Toothfish (Dissostichus spp.) imported under HS 030283 enters the UK at 14.00% ad valorem, the EU at 15.00% ad valorem, and the US at a rate of Free or 2.2¢/kg. This HS code specifically covers fresh or chilled toothfish, also known as Patagonian toothfish or Chilean sea bass, a deep-sea species. Importers should be aware of potential conservation and management measures that may apply to this species, as it is subject to international regulations. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information, providing crucial data for trade compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302830000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302830000 | 15.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302830000 | 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?
What products does HS 030283 cover?
This subheading covers toothfish, scientifically identified as belonging to the genus *Dissostichus* spp. These are large, deep-sea dwelling fish, commonly known as Patagonian toothfish or Chilean sea bass. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this specific code is designated for fresh or chilled toothfish, excluding fillets and other fish meat. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the whole fish of this genus.
What falls outside HS 030283?
The following products are excluded from HS 030283: fillets of toothfish, which are classified under HS 0304; fish meat of toothfish, also falling under HS 0304; and any other species of fish not belonging to the *Dissostichus* genus. For instance, other large white fish like cod or halibut, even if presented whole and fresh or chilled, would be classified under different subheadings within Heading 0302, based on their specific species identification.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030283?
A common error is misclassifying processed forms of toothfish, such as frozen toothfish or toothfish fillets, under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. Frozen toothfish would typically fall under HS 0303, while fillets and other meat would be classified under HS 0304, regardless of whether they are fresh, chilled, or frozen.
How should importers classify products under HS 030283?
The correct procedure for classifying toothfish under HS 030283 involves verifying that the product is indeed fresh or chilled and is the whole fish of the *Dissostichus* genus. Importers and customs brokers must consult official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and ensure that the product's condition (fresh/chilled) and form (whole fish) align precisely with the subheading's description. Accurate species identification is paramount.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030283?
A shipment of 1,000 kg of fresh Patagonian toothfish, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,500 USD. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 10.0% = $1,500 USD). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 030283.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030283?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030283. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), qualifying toothfish originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free, requiring a self-certified origin statement. Similarly, the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or zero duties for certain developing countries, often necessitating a EUR.1 movement certificate for proof of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030283 (Toothfish)?
Import duty rates for HS code 030283 (Toothfish, excluding fillets and other meat of fish of the subheadings 0302.11 to 0302.81) vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example, under the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 0% (Free). However, other countries may have different rates. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment. For instance, the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff should be consulted for European and UK imports respectively.
How is the duty for HS code 030283 calculated if it's not an ad valorem rate?
While many HS codes have ad valorem (percentage of value) duties, some may have specific duties (per unit of weight or measure). For example, if a country applied a specific duty of $2.20 per kilogram for HS 030283, and you imported 1,000 kg of toothfish, the duty would be calculated as: 1,000 kg * $2.20/kg = $2,200. It is crucial to verify the exact duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) in the importing country's tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required for importing Toothfish under HS code 030283?
In addition to standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importing fish under HS code 030283 often requires specific health and catch documentation. This may include a Catch Certificate issued by the flag state of the vessel, a health certificate from the exporting country's competent authority, and potentially permits related to CITES if the species is listed or if import is subject to specific conservation regulations. Importers should verify the exact requirements with the customs authority and relevant fisheries or food safety agencies of the destination country.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 030283 under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for HS code 030283 depending on the origin of the toothfish and the trade agreements in place between the exporting country and the importing country. For example, if toothfish are exported from a country that has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States, they might qualify for duty-free entry under that agreement, even if the MFN rate is already 0%. Similarly, the EU and UK have numerous FTAs that could offer reduced or zero duties. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin or other proof of origin as stipulated by the specific trade agreement.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030283?
HS code 030283 specifically covers 'Toothfish (Dissostichus spp.)' that are fresh or chilled, excluding fillets and other fish meat. The primary classification criterion is the species identification: the fish must belong to the genus Dissostichus. Common species include Dissostichus eleginoides (Patagonian toothfish) and Dissostichus mawsoni (Antarctic toothfish). The product must also be in its fresh or chilled state and not processed into fillets or other meat forms, which would fall under different HS subheadings (e.g., 0304).