HS 030488 Dogfish, other sharks, rays and skates (Rajidae)
Quick Answer: Dogfish, other sharks, rays, and skates imported under HS 030488 enter the UK at 6.00% ad valorem, the EU at 7.50% ad valorem, and the US at a rate of 5.5¢/kg under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. This HS code specifically covers the fresh, chilled, or frozen meat of dogfish, other types of sharks, and all varieties of rays and skates. Importers and customs brokers should note that while the US duty is specific (per kilogram), the UK and EU duties are ad valorem (a percentage of the value). CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the need for precise valuation for ad valorem duties and accurate weight declarations for specific duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304880000 | — | — | — |
| 0304881100 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0304881500 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0304881800 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0304882200 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304881100 | 7.50 % | — | — |
| 0304881800 | 7.50 % | — | — |
| 0304882900 | 7.50 % | — | — |
| 0304889000 | 15.00 % | — | — |
| 0304880000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304880000 | 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 030488 cover?
This subheading covers fresh, chilled, or frozen fish fillets and other fish meat of dogfish, other sharks, rays, and skates (Rajidae), as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to the flesh of these cartilaginous fish, whether presented as whole fillets, pieces, or minced, provided they retain the characteristics of raw fish meat and are not prepared or preserved in a manner that would place them in other headings, such as heading 1604 for prepared or preserved fish.
What falls outside HS 030488?
The following products are excluded from HS 030488: fish of the species dogfish, other sharks, rays, and skates that are live, dead but not chilled or frozen, or have undergone any form of preparation or preservation beyond simple chilling or freezing, such as cooking, salting, smoking, or drying. For instance, shark fins intended for soup (typically classified under 030499 or 1604 depending on preparation), shark meat that has been breaded and fried (likely 1604), or whole, gutted, or gilled but unfrozen fish of these species would be classified elsewhere, often under heading 0302 or 0303.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030488?
A common error is misclassifying processed or prepared fish products under this subheading. For example, shark meat that has been marinated, seasoned, or partially cooked before freezing is often mistakenly entered as 030488. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If the product has undergone processing beyond what is permitted for heading 0304, it should be classified in a more specific heading, such as 1604 for prepared or preserved fish, even if the primary ingredient is shark.
How should importers classify products under HS 030488?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030488 involves a thorough examination of the product's form and state. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product consists solely of the flesh of dogfish, other sharks, rays, or skates (Rajidae) and that it is presented fresh, chilled, or frozen. Reviewing the product's packaging, processing details, and comparing these against the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030488?
A shipment of frozen dogfish fillets weighing 1,000 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty of $500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 10% = $500.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 030488. It is important to note that specific rates can vary based on origin and trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030488?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030488, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030488 (Dogfish, other sharks, rays and skates)?
Import duty rates for HS code 030488 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under the USMCA may be eligible for free entry. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rates. The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) website is a primary resource for U.S. tariff information.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 030488 when a specific duty rate (e.g., 5.5¢/kg) applies?
When a specific duty rate is applied, such as 5.5¢/kg, the duty is calculated based on the net weight of the imported product. For example, if an importer brings in 1,000 kilograms of dogfish fillets (HS 030488) subject to a 5.5¢/kg duty, the total duty would be 1,000 kg * $0.055/kg = $55.00. This is in contrast to ad valorem duties, which are a percentage of the value of the goods. It is crucial to accurately declare the net weight to ensure correct duty calculation.
What documentation is typically required for importing dogfish, sharks, rays, and skates under HS code 030488?
Standard documentation for importing goods under HS code 030488 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the importing country's regulations and the product's origin, you may need a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates. For seafood products, health certificates or sanitary permits issued by the competent authorities of the exporting country are often mandatory to ensure compliance with food safety standards. Always verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 030488 under major trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available under various trade agreements. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), dogfish, sharks, rays, and skates originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for duty-free entry into the United States, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with partner countries can offer reduced or zero duty rates for products classified under HS 030488. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin to claim these benefits. Consulting resources like the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff can provide details on applicable preferential rates.
What are the key criteria for classifying fish under HS code 030488, as opposed to other HS codes for fish products?
HS code 030488 specifically covers 'Dogfish, other sharks, rays and skates (Rajidae)' when they are presented as 'fish fillets and other fish meat (whether or not minced), fresh, chilled or frozen'. The classification hinges on two main factors: the species of fish and its presentation. The species must be identifiable as dogfish, other sharks, or rays and skates (family Rajidae). The product must also be in the form of fillets or other fish meat, and it can be fresh, chilled, or frozen. Products that are whole fish, or fish presented in other forms (e.g., dried, salted, or in meal form), or fish meat from species other than sharks, rays, or skates would be classified under different HS codes within Chapter 03. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System for detailed guidance on classification.