HS 030357 Swordfish (Xiphias gladius)
Quick Answer: Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) imported under HS 030357 enters the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 7.50%, and the US with rates varying from Free to 2.2¢/kg. This code specifically covers swordfish, excluding livers and roes, whether fresh, chilled, or frozen. Importers should be aware of potential seasonal or quota restrictions that may affect duty rates in certain jurisdictions, as detailed in official tariff schedules. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals. Accurate classification is crucial to ensure correct duty application and compliance with import regulations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0303570000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0303570000 | 7.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03035700 | Free | — | — |
| 0303570010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0303570090 | — | — | ["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 030357 cover?
This subheading covers swordfish (Xiphias gladius), specifically when it is frozen, whether or not previously cooked by steaming or boiling in water before freezing. The World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature (WCO HS) defines this category broadly, and official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that only the species *Xiphias gladius* is included, excluding other billfish species. This classification is based on the biological species identification.
What falls outside HS 030357?
The following products are excluded from HS 030357: swordfish that is fresh or chilled (classified under HS 030289), swordfish that is dried, salted, or in brine (classified under HS 0305), and swordfish that is otherwise prepared or preserved, such as canned or smoked (classified under HS 1604). Products that are not *Xiphias gladius*, even if they resemble swordfish, such as marlin or sailfish, will be classified under different subheadings within Chapter 03 or Chapter 16, requiring precise species identification.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030357?
A common error is misidentifying the species, leading to classification under incorrect headings for other billfish. Another mistake involves confusion with prepared or preserved swordfish products. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers must ensure the product is indeed *Xiphias gladius* and that it meets the "frozen" condition, not fresh, chilled, or otherwise processed beyond simple steaming/boiling before freezing.
How should importers classify products under HS 030357?
The correct procedure for classifying frozen swordfish under HS 030357 involves verifying the species is *Xiphias gladius* and confirming the product is frozen, potentially after a preliminary steaming or boiling. Importers and customs brokers should consult the product's commercial documentation, including invoices and packing lists, which should clearly state the species and form. Cross-referencing with official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC for specific country requirements and any applicable notes is crucial for accurate declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030357?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of frozen swordfish loins, declared at a customs value of $8,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,200.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 15% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($8,000 USD × 0.15 = $1,200.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 030357.9000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030357?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030357, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating swordfish from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. For imports into the European Union, originating swordfish from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) may also benefit from reduced or zero duties, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate, depending on the specific agreement and origin country.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) under HS code 030357?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for Swordfish (Xiphias gladius), frozen, not elsewhere specified or included, under HS code 030357, is typically 3.5% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or trade programs. For example, under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), certain developing countries may receive duty-free treatment. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for any preferential rates. For the US, consult the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. For the EU, consult the TARIC database. For the UK, consult the UK Trade Tariff.
How is the import duty for HS 030357 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 030357 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem, and you import 1,000 kg of frozen swordfish with a declared customs value of $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = 3.5% of $5,000 USD = 0.035 * $5,000 = $175 USD. Always ensure accurate valuation and correct application of the duty rate.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030357 (Swordfish)?
HS code 030357 specifically covers 'Swordfish (Xiphias gladius), frozen, otherwise excluded'. The primary classification criteria are: 1. Species: The fish must be identified as Swordfish (Xiphias gladius). 2. Condition: The product must be frozen. 3. Presentation: It should not be prepared or preserved in any way beyond freezing. This code is for the raw, frozen fish. Products that are cut into portions, filleted, or otherwise processed would fall under different HS codes. Verification of species identification is critical for correct classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing Swordfish (HS 030357)?
Standard documentation for importing HS code 030357 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the importing country's regulations and the source of the goods, you may need a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates. Health and sanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country are often required to ensure the fish meets safety standards. Importers should also be prepared for potential inspections by food safety agencies.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for Swordfish (HS 030357)?
Several trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 030357. For imports into the United States, agreements like the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) or agreements with specific countries might offer reduced or zero duties on certain seafood products, provided rules of origin are met. For imports into the European Union, agreements with countries such as Norway, Iceland, or those under the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean cumulation system could provide preferential treatment. For the UK, post-Brexit trade deals with various nations are relevant. Always verify the specific terms and conditions of any applicable trade agreement with the relevant customs authority or trade tariff database.