HS 030431 Fresh or chilled fillets of tilapias (Oreochromis spp.), catfish (Pangasius spp., Silurus spp., Clarias spp., Ictalurus spp.), carp (Cyprinus spp., Carassius spp., Ctenopharyngodon idellus, Hypophthalmichthys spp., Cirrhinus spp., Mylopharyngodon piceus, Catla catla, Labeo spp., Osteochilus hasselti, Leptobarbus hoeveni, Megalobrama spp.), eels (Anguilla spp.), Nile perch (Lates niloticus) and snakeheads (Channa spp.)
Quick Answer: Tilapias, catfish, carp, eels, Nile perch, and snakeheads, imported as fresh or chilled fillets under HS code 030431, enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 9.00%, and the US at a rate of Free or 5.5¢/kg. This classification specifically covers the boneless, skinless flesh of these fish species, prepared for direct consumption or further processing. Importers should note the differing duty structures, particularly the specific weight-based component in the US, which can significantly impact landed costs. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these variations is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304310000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304310000 | 9.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304310000 | 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 030431 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled fillets derived from specific species of fish, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (WCO HS) nomenclature. This includes fillets of tilapias (Oreochromis spp.), various species of catfish (Pangasius spp., Silurus spp., Clarias spp., Ictalurus spp.), carp (Cyprinus spp., Carassius spp., and others listed), eels (Anguilla spp.), Nile perch (Lates niloticus), and snakeheads (Channa spp.). The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, emphasizing the "fillet" form and the "fresh or chilled" condition, excluding any processed or frozen products.
What falls outside HS 030431?
The following products are excluded from HS 030431: fish fillets that are frozen, dried, salted, or cooked, as these fall under different HS headings or subheadings. Whole fish, fish steaks, or other cuts not specifically identified as fillets are also excluded. For instance, frozen tilapia fillets would be classified under HS 030489, and whole fresh carp would fall under HS 0302.90. The key distinction is the form (fillet) and the condition (fresh or chilled).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030431?
A common error is misidentifying the species of fish or the form of the product. For example, classifying fish steaks as fillets, or incorrectly classifying fillets of fish not listed in the subheading's scope, such as salmon or cod, which have their own specific classifications under HS 0304. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1, which states classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 030431?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030431 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm the exact species of fish and ensure it is listed within the subheading's scope. Second, they must verify the product's condition is strictly "fresh or chilled," not frozen or otherwise processed. Consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing product specifications and supplier declarations are essential steps.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030431?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of fresh tilapia fillets, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.03 = $15.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 030431. The specific duty rate can vary based on origin and trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030431?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030431, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can offer duty-free entry for qualifying products originating from Canada or Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also provide reduced or duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries. Documentation required typically includes a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030431 (fresh or chilled tilapia and catfish fillets)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 030431 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, imports from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States may be eligible for duty-free entry. Importers should always verify the specific origin of the goods and consult the relevant trade agreement or the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information.
How is the duty for HS code 030431 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 030431 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% ad valorem and the declared customs value of a shipment of tilapia fillets is $10,000 USD, the calculated duty would be $10,000 USD * 8.00% = $800 USD. Some specific products or origins might have additional duties or be subject to per kilogram rates, so it's crucial to check the full tariff schedule.
What specific documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 030431?
When importing fresh or chilled fish fillets classified under HS code 030431, standard import documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, importers must ensure compliance with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations for seafood, which may involve prior notice of imported food shipments and adherence to seafood traceability requirements. A certificate of origin may also be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements.
Are there any common trade agreements that significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 030431?
Yes, several trade agreements can affect the duty rates for HS code 030431. For example, the United States has FTAs with countries like Chile, Australia, and Singapore, which may offer reduced or duty-free entry for qualifying products. Importers should investigate if their goods originate from a country that is a party to an FTA with the importing country. The specific terms and product eligibility under each agreement must be confirmed, often requiring a valid Certificate of Origin.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030431, and what distinguishes it from other fish fillet codes?
HS code 030431 specifically covers fresh or chilled fillets of certain fish species, including tilapias (Oreochromis spp.), pangasius catfish, carp, eels, Nile perch, and snakeheads. The key classification criteria are the 'fresh or chilled' condition (not frozen or otherwise preserved), the 'fillet' form (meat removed from the bone and skin, typically cut into portions), and the specific species listed in the heading. It is crucial to differentiate these from whole fish, other fish cuts, or fillets of different species which would fall under different HS codes, such as 030481 for salmon fillets or 030487 for tuna fillets.