HS 030453 Fish of the families Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae and Muraenolepididae

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What products does HS 030453 cover?

This subheading covers fresh, chilled, or frozen fish fillets and other fish meat of the families Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae, and Muraenolepididae. As defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes species commonly known as cod, haddock, pollock, and hake. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, provide detailed lists of the specific species encompassed within these families, ensuring precise classification for trade purposes.

What falls outside HS 030453?

The following products are excluded from HS 030453: fish of other families not listed, whole fish, fish heads, tails, and other offal not considered meat, and fish that have undergone processing beyond simple chilling or freezing, such as drying, salting, or cooking. For instance, smoked cod fillets would be classified under a different subheading, typically within heading 0305. Similarly, fish cakes or prepared meals containing fish meat from these families would fall under Chapter 16, not Chapter 03.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 030453?

A common error is misidentifying the family of the fish, leading to classification under an incorrect subheading. For example, classifying fillets from fish not belonging to the specified families (e.g., salmon, which is in the Salmonidae family) under 030453 would be incorrect. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial. Importers must verify the scientific family of the fish product.

How should importers classify products under HS 030453?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030453 involves several steps. First, identify the specific species of fish and its scientific family. Second, confirm that the product is in the form of fillets or other fish meat, and that it is fresh, chilled, or frozen. Third, consult official tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC to verify that the identified fish family is listed under subheading 030453. Importers should maintain detailed product specifications and supplier documentation.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030453?

A shipment of frozen Alaska Pollock fillets weighing 1,000 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $3,000 USD would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0% ad valorem for this product under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the duty amount would be $0.00 (0% × $3,000). This calculation demonstrates that for many jurisdictions, certain fish products under this code may have preferential or zero duty rates, especially when imported from countries with MFN status.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030453?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030453, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, fish and fish products originating from Canada or Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid claim of origin, often supported by a supplier's declaration or a certificate of origin, is typically required. Other agreements might offer reduced rates for specific origin countries, necessitating verification of eligibility and documentation.

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