HS 030332 Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa)
Quick Answer: Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) imported under HS 030332 enters the UK at 14.00%, the EU at 15.00%, and the US at a rate of Free or 2.2¢/kg. This HS code specifically covers frozen plaice, excluding fillets and other meat of fish of the species *Pleuronectes platessa*. Importers should be aware that while the US offers duty-free entry for some forms, specific weight-based duties may apply. Exporters should verify the precise classification and applicable duties for their destination market, as rates can vary based on origin and specific product form. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0303320000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0303320000 | 15.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0303320000 | 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 030332 cover?
This subheading covers frozen plaice (Pleuronectes platessa), excluding livers, roes, and milt. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 0303 specifically pertains to fish, frozen, excluding fish fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. Subheading 0303.32 is dedicated to the specific species of flatfish known as plaice, ensuring precise classification for this commercially important marine species. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope.
What falls outside HS 030332?
The following products are excluded from HS 030332: fresh or chilled plaice (which would fall under HS 0302.32), plaice fillets or other fish meat of plaice (classified under HS 0304.99), and plaice that has been prepared or preserved in any way other than simply frozen, such as canned or dried plaice. Livers, roes, and milt of plaice are also specifically excluded and would be classified under their respective headings within Chapter 03 or elsewhere, depending on preparation.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030332?
A common error is misclassifying other species of flatfish as plaice, or failing to distinguish between frozen fish and other forms of preservation. For instance, sole or flounder, while also flatfish, belong to different HS subheadings. Additionally, confusion can arise if the product is not solely frozen plaice but includes other fish species or is presented in a form other than whole frozen fish, such as fillets, which would necessitate reclassification under HS 0304. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and 3 is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 030332?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030332 involves verifying the species of fish and its condition. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the product is indeed plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) and that it is presented in a frozen state, not chilled, fresh, or otherwise prepared. Reviewing product specifications, supplier declarations, and potentially scientific identification of the fish species is essential to ensure accurate classification and avoid discrepancies with customs authorities.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030332?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of frozen plaice, 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 value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for HS code 030332. Note that specific quantities might also have specific duties in some jurisdictions.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030332?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030332, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, plaice originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free, provided the importer submits a valid origin declaration. For European Union countries, the Economic Partnership Agreements may offer preferential rates, often resulting in duty-free entry for originating goods, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate. The specific preferential rate and documentation depend on the origin country and the importing jurisdiction's tariff schedule.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for Plaice (HS 030332) into the United States?
For Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) classified under HS code 030332, the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate into the United States is Free. This is according to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) maintained by the US International Trade Commission (USITC). Importers should always verify the current tariff schedule for any updates or specific product exclusions.
How is the duty calculated for HS 030332 if a specific duty rate applies, for example, 2.2¢/kg?
If a specific duty rate of 2.2¢/kg applies to Plaice (HS 030332), the duty is calculated based on the net weight of the imported product. For example, if an importer brings in 10,000 kilograms of Plaice, the total duty would be 10,000 kg * 2.2¢/kg = 22,000¢. Converting cents to dollars, this equals $220.00. It is crucial to use the net weight of the fish, excluding any packaging or ice, as specified in the customs declaration.
Are there any preferential duty rates for Plaice (HS 030332) under trade agreements affecting the EU market?
Within the European Union, HS code 030332 for Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) may benefit from preferential duty rates under various trade agreements the EU has with third countries. For instance, agreements with countries like Norway or Iceland might offer reduced or zero duties. Importers must consult the EU's TARIC database, referencing the specific country of origin and any applicable preferential origin documentation to determine eligibility and the exact preferential duty rate.
What documentation is typically required for importing Plaice (HS 030332) into the UK?
When importing Plaice (HS 030332) into the United Kingdom, standard documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, a catch certificate or proof of origin may be required, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements like the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement. Importers should also ensure compliance with relevant food safety and health regulations, potentially requiring health certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country. The UK Trade Tariff provides detailed guidance on import requirements.
What defines 'Plaice' for HS classification under 030332, and are there specific criteria to distinguish it from other flatfish?
HS code 030332 specifically covers 'Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa)'. For classification purposes, the key criterion is the biological identification of the species. Plaice is a specific type of flatfish belonging to the Pleuronectidae family, characterized by its asymmetrical body and both eyes migrating to one side of the head. Customs authorities rely on scientific names and common names to ensure accurate classification. If there is any doubt, importers may be asked to provide scientific documentation or expert verification to confirm the species is indeed Pleuronectes platessa and not another type of flatfish, which would fall under a different HS code (e.g., 030339 for other flatfish).