HS 030356 Cobia (Rachycentron canadum)
Quick Answer: Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) imported under HS 030356 enters the UK at 14.00%, the EU at 15.00%, and the US at a rate of Free or 2.2¢/kg. This Harmonized System (HS) code specifically covers cobia, a saltwater fish, when it is imported frozen, chilled, or fresh, but not live. Importers should note the significant duty rate differences between major markets. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these varying rates is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and trade compliance. Exporters should be aware of these tariff structures when planning shipments to these destinations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0303560000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0303560000 | 15.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0303560000 | 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 030356 cover?
This subheading covers frozen cobia (Rachycentron canadum) that are not intended for human consumption. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to the species Rachycentron canadum, specifically when presented in a frozen state. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm that this code is dedicated to frozen cobia, excluding any preparations or other forms of presentation.
What falls outside HS 030356?
The following products are excluded from HS 030356: fresh or chilled cobia (which would fall under HS 030355), cobia prepared or preserved in any way (e.g., smoked, salted, or in brine, classified under HS Chapter 16), and cobia intended for human consumption. Live cobia, or cobia that has undergone any processing beyond simple freezing, such as filleting or portioning before freezing, may also be classified elsewhere depending on the specific presentation and further processing steps.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030356?
A common error is misinterpreting the "not intended for human consumption" clause. While HS 030356 is for frozen cobia, the primary classification for edible frozen cobia is typically found under HS 030355. Importers may mistakenly classify edible frozen cobia under 030356 if they overlook the specific intended use or the distinction between edible and non-edible forms, potentially leading to incorrect duty assessments and compliance issues.
How should importers classify products under HS 030356?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030356 involves a thorough examination of the product's presentation and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed cobia (Rachycentron canadum), that it is presented in a frozen state, and crucially, that it is explicitly not intended for human consumption. Consulting the official WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific national tariff schedule, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is essential for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030356?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of frozen cobia, not for human consumption, declared at a customs value of $3,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 030356 in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 0% ad valorem. Therefore, the duty calculation is 0% × $3,000 USD = $0.00 USD, assuming no other specific duties or taxes apply.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030356?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030356, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, cobia originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a 0% duty rate. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is required. Currently, there are no other major free trade agreements that specifically offer preferential rates for this particular HS code from other significant origin countries.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the import duty rates for Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) under HS code 030356?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for Cobia (Rachycentron canadum), frozen, not including fillets, under HS code 030356 is 14.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For instance, under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), eligible countries may benefit from a 0% duty rate. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for any preferential treatment.
How is the import duty for HS 030356 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 030356 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if you import 1,000 kg of frozen Cobia valued at $5,000 USD, and the MFN duty rate is 14.00%, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Value × Duty Rate = $5,000 USD × 14.00% = $700 USD. Always confirm the applicable duty rate and ensure accurate valuation for correct duty assessment.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) under HS 030356?
When importing Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) under HS code 030356, standard documentation usually includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the importing country's regulations and the product's origin, you may need a certificate of origin, a phytosanitary certificate, and potentially health certificates or declarations from the exporting country's competent authority to ensure compliance with food safety and animal health standards. Importers should verify specific requirements with their customs broker or the importing country's customs agency.
Are there any common trade agreements that significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 030356?
Yes, several trade agreements can affect the duty rates for HS code 030356. For example, Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between the importing country and the exporting country often provide for reduced or duty-free entry. The United States has FTAs with countries like Chile, Singapore, and Australia, which might offer preferential rates. The European Union's Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) also includes numerous preferential agreements. Importers should investigate if their specific trade lane benefits from an FTA or other preferential regime, such as the GSP, which could reduce the standard 14.00% MFN rate.
What are the classification criteria for Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) under HS code 030356?
HS code 030356 specifically covers 'Cobia (Rachycentron canadum), frozen, excluding fillets.' The primary classification criteria are the species of fish (Cobia, scientific name Rachycentron canadum) and its condition (frozen). It explicitly excludes products that have been processed into fillets. Therefore, whole frozen Cobia or Cobia that has been headed and gutted but not filleted would fall under this code. Any further processing into fillets would necessitate reclassification under a different HS code, typically within Chapter 03, Subheading 0304.