HS 030454 Swordfish (Xiphias gladius)
Quick Answer: Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) imported under HS 030454 enters the UK at 14.00%, the EU at 15.00%, and the US at a rate of 5.5¢/kg (Most Favored Nation rate). This Harmonized System code specifically covers swordfish, whether fresh, chilled, or frozen, excluding fillets and other meat of fish of the subheading 0304.99. Importers and customs brokers should note the significant ad valorem duty in the UK and EU, contrasting with the specific weight-based duty in the US. According to CustomTariffs data, these rates are subject to potential preferential agreements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304540000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304540000 | 15.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304540000 | 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 030454 cover?
This subheading covers swordfish (Xiphias gladius) that are fresh, chilled, or frozen, whether or not cooked by steaming or boiling in water before freezing. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 0304 specifically pertains to fish fillets and other fish meat, whether or not minced, fresh, chilled or frozen. Subheading 030454 is a specific designation for the meat of the swordfish species, excluding any preparations or processed forms not explicitly covered.
What falls outside HS 030454?
The following products are excluded from HS 030454: swordfish that have undergone further processing beyond steaming or boiling, such as smoking, salting, or drying; swordfish prepared in sauces or other foodstuffs; and any other fish species not identified as swordfish (Xiphias gladius). For example, swordfish steaks marinated in oil would likely be classified under a different heading, such as 1604, which covers prepared or preserved fish.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030454?
A common error is misclassifying swordfish products that have undergone significant processing. For instance, if swordfish is breaded and fried, it would not fall under 030454 but rather under a heading for prepared or preserved fish products. 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 to avoid such mistakes.
How should importers classify products under HS 030454?
The correct procedure for classifying swordfish products under HS 030454 involves a thorough examination of the product's form and any processing it has undergone. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the product is indeed swordfish (Xiphias gladius) and that it is presented fresh, chilled, or frozen, potentially after steaming or boiling. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030454?
A 10 kg shipment of frozen swordfish loins, declared at a customs value of $150.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($150.00 USD × 10% = $15.00). This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030454?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030454. For imports into the European Union from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that includes provisions for fish, the duty could be reduced to Free. For example, under the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), Canadian swordfish may enter the EU duty-free upon presentation of a CETA declaration. Similarly, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may offer preferential rates for swordfish originating from Mexico or Canada, typically requiring a USMCA-compliant origin declaration.
```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 Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) under HS code 030454?
The duty rates for Swordfish (Xiphias gladius), classified under HS code 030454, vary by importing country and trade agreement. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 3.5% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates. For instance, the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff would provide the relevant rates for imports into those regions.
How is the import duty calculated for Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) if the duty is based on weight?
When the duty is calculated based on weight, the rate is applied per unit of weight (e.g., per kilogram). For example, if Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) is subject to a duty of $0.50/kg and an importer brings in 1000 kg, the total duty would be 1000 kg * $0.50/kg = $500.00. It is crucial to verify the exact unit of measure (e.g., kg, lb) and the specific rate from the official tariff schedule of the importing country.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030454, Swordfish (Xiphias gladius)?
HS code 030454 specifically covers 'Swordfish (Xiphias gladius)'. The primary classification criterion is the species of fish. Imports must be definitively identified as Xiphias gladius. This may require supporting documentation such as a species identification certificate from the exporter or a declaration on the commercial invoice. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides guidance on fish classification, emphasizing accurate species identification.
What documentation is typically required for importing Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) under HS code 030454?
Beyond standard import documentation like a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importing Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) often requires specific certifications related to food safety and species verification. This may include a Catch Certificate or Certificate of Origin to comply with regulations against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and health certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country. Importers should also be prepared for potential inspections by food safety agencies in the destination country.
Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for Swordfish (Xiphias gladius)?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for Swordfish (Xiphias gladius). For instance, if Swordfish is sourced from a country that has a free trade agreement with the importing nation (e.g., a country party to the EU's fisheries agreements or the USMCA), preferential duty rates, potentially including duty-free access, might be available. To claim these preferential rates, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. Consulting the specific trade agreement and the importing country's customs authority is essential for determining eligibility and requirements.