HS 030463 Nile perch (Lates niloticus)
Quick Answer: Nile perch (Lates niloticus) imported under HS 030463 enters the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 9.00%, and the US at a rate of Free or 5.5¢/kg depending on the specific import conditions. This HS code specifically covers fresh, chilled, or frozen fillets of Nile perch. Importers should be aware that the US duty rate can vary, requiring careful verification of the applicable tariff provision. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304630000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304630000 | 9.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304630000 | 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 030463 cover?
This subheading covers Nile perch (Lates niloticus), specifically when it is fresh, chilled, or frozen, whether or not minced, but excluding fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. The World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature defines this category broadly, and official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this specific code is dedicated to the whole or pieces of Nile perch, not further processed into specific cuts like fillets.
What falls outside HS 030463?
The following products are excluded from HS 030463: fillets of Nile perch, which are classified under a different subheading within heading 0304, and other fish meat of Nile perch that has been processed beyond simple chilling or freezing, such as dried, salted, or smoked. Products that are breaded or battered, or prepared or preserved in any way, would also fall outside this subheading and be classified under Chapter 16 of the HS.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030463?
A common error is misclassifying fillets of Nile perch as whole fish or pieces under HS 030463. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Fillets are specifically excluded by the wording of the subheadings within heading 0304, and therefore must be classified separately, typically under 0304.89.50 in the US HTS.
How should importers classify products under HS 030463?
The correct procedure for classifying Nile perch under HS 030463 involves verifying that the product is indeed Nile perch (Lates niloticus) and that it is presented in a fresh, chilled, or frozen state, and is not in fillet form. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to confirm the precise description and any specific notes or exclusions applicable to this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030463?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of frozen Nile perch, not in fillets, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.05 = $250.00). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030463?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030463. For instance, under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), eligible countries such as Kenya may import Nile perch duty-free into the United States. Documentation required to claim this preference typically includes a specific AGOA certificate of origin. Similarly, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry from certain developing nations, requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for Nile perch (Lates niloticus) under HS code 030463?
Import duty rates for Nile perch (Lates niloticus), classified under HS code 030463, vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For instance, the United States applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC system may list different rates depending on the origin and specific product form. The UK Trade Tariff also provides specific rates, which can be found by searching the tariff database. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.
How is the import duty for Nile perch (Lates niloticus) calculated if it has a specific rate like 5.5% ad valorem?
When the duty rate is ad valorem (e.g., 5.5%), the duty is calculated as a percentage of the customs value of the imported goods. For example, if 100 kg of Nile perch valued at $500 USD is imported into the US, the customs value is $500. The import duty would be 5.5% of $500, which equals $27.50. If the duty were a specific rate, such as 5.5¢/kg, the calculation would be based on the net weight: 100 kg × 5.5¢/kg = 550¢, or $5.50.
What documentation is typically required for importing Nile perch (Lates niloticus) under HS code 030463?
Standard documentation for importing Nile perch (Lates niloticus) under HS code 030463 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the origin of the fish, additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin, health certificates or phytosanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country, and potentially import permits. Importers should verify specific requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.
Are there preferential duty rates available for Nile perch (Lates niloticus) imported under HS code 030463 through trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for Nile perch (Lates niloticus) under HS code 030463, depending on the origin of the goods and the trade agreements in place between the exporting and importing countries. For example, imports from countries that are beneficiaries of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the US, EU, or UK may qualify for reduced or duty-free entry. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need to provide proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or a declaration of origin on the invoice, that meets the specific rules of the relevant trade agreement.
What are the key criteria for classifying Nile perch (Lates niloticus) under HS code 030463?
HS code 030463 specifically covers 'Fish, fresh, chilled or frozen, fillets and other fish meat, whether or not minced, of Nile perch (Lates niloticus)'. The key classification criteria are: 1. The species must be Nile perch (Lates niloticus). 2. The product must be fish meat, including fillets or minced meat. 3. The fish must be presented in a fresh, chilled, or frozen state. Products that are dried, salted, smoked, or cooked would fall under different HS codes. Verification of the species and its condition is paramount for correct classification.