HS 030493 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 under HS 030493 enter the UK at 14.00%, the EU at 14.20% (MFN), and the US at 6% (MFN). This HS code specifically covers a variety of freshwater fish, excluding salmonids and flatfish, in various forms such as fresh, chilled, or frozen fillets and other meat. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on preferential trade agreements, particularly in the US market where certain countries benefit from duty-free entry. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country-of-origin rules for accurate duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304930000 | — | — | — |
| 0304931000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0304931010 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0304931090 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0304939000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304930000 | — | — | — |
| 0304931090 | 14.20 % | — | — |
| 0304939090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 0304931000 | 14.20 % | — | — |
| 0304931010 | 14.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304931005 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 030493 | — | — | — |
| 0304931010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0304939000 | 6% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 03049310 | Free | — | — |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 0304.93?
Imports 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.) may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 030493 cover?
This subheading covers specific species of fish, whether fresh, chilled, or frozen, excluding fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, it specifically includes 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.). The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this precise enumeration of species.
What falls outside HS 030493?
The following products are excluded from HS 030493: fish meat that has been minced, processed, or is in the form of fillets, steaks, or other distinct cuts, which are classified under other subheadings of heading 0304. For instance, fillets of tilapia would typically fall under HS 030461. Additionally, live fish, fish intended for stocking purposes, or fish that have undergone cooking or other significant preparation beyond simple chilling or freezing are classified elsewhere, often in Chapter 03 or Chapter 16, depending on the degree of processing.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030493?
A common error is misidentifying the species of fish, leading to classification under an incorrect subheading. For example, classifying a fish that is not one of the enumerated species within this subheading, such as cod or salmon, would be incorrect. Another mistake involves confusing whole fish or pieces of fish with fillets or other processed forms. Adherence to the specific species listed in the WCO HS Nomenclature and the Explanatory Notes is crucial, as is correctly applying 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.
How should importers classify products under HS 030493?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030493 involves a meticulous review of the product's species and form. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the fish is one of the specifically listed species: Tilapia, Pangasius catfish, Silurus catfish, Clarias catfish, Ictalurus catfish, carp species, eels, Nile perch, or snakeheads. Secondly, they must verify that the product is presented as whole fish, fish heads, tails, pieces, or other forms that are not fillets or minced meat. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, is essential for definitive classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030493?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of frozen whole Nile perch (Lates niloticus) declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 30% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 30% × $5,000 USD = $1,500 USD. This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 0304939000 (for frozen fish of this category).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030493?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030493, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and various Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) schemes. Under USMCA, originating fish from Canada or Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. For developing countries, preferential rates, often "Free," may apply under GSP programs, benefiting countries like Vietnam for certain catfish products. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 030493, specifically for tilapia and catfish, into the United States?
For HS code 030493, covering tilapia, catfish, carp, eels, Nile perch, and snakeheads, the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate into the United States is 14.00% ad valorem. This rate applies to goods from countries not covered by specific trade agreements that grant preferential treatment. For example, if a shipment of frozen tilapia fillets valued at $10,000 is imported, the duty would be $10,000 \times 14.00% = $1,400. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) maintained by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most current rates and any specific product exclusions or requirements.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 030493 under any trade agreements for import into the EU?
Yes, the EU's Combined Nomenclature (CN) code 030493, which covers the same species as the US HTS code, often benefits from preferential duty rates under various trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU may be eligible for reduced or zero duties. The specific preferential rate depends on the country of origin and the terms of the applicable FTA. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as an EUR.1 certificate or an origin declaration on the invoice, to claim preferential treatment. Consult the EU's TARIC database for the specific duty rates applicable to your country of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030493, and what documentation is crucial for customs clearance?
HS code 030493 specifically covers 'Fish fillets and other fish meat (whether or not minced), fresh, chilled or frozen.' The key classification criteria are the species of fish (tilapias, catfish, carp, eels, Nile perch, snakeheads) and their condition (fresh, chilled, or frozen). It is crucial that the product is presented as fillets or other meat, not as whole fish or pieces with bone. For customs clearance, a detailed commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are standard. Additionally, a certificate of origin is often required, especially if claiming preferential duty rates. Depending on the importing country's regulations, a phytosanitary certificate or health certificate may also be necessary to ensure the fish meets food safety standards. Always verify specific documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
How do trade agreements like USMCA or CPTPP affect the import duties for HS code 030493 into the United States?
Trade agreements such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods originating from member countries. For HS code 030493, if the fish fillets or meat originate from a country that is a party to one of these agreements and meet the rules of origin stipulated within the agreement, importers can claim preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry. For example, fish originating from Canada or Mexico under USMCA might enter the US at a 0% duty rate, provided all origin requirements are met. Importers must possess a valid certificate of origin or other acceptable proof of origin documentation as per the specific trade agreement's guidelines. Refer to the USITC HTSUS and the text of the relevant trade agreements for detailed rules of origin.
Can you provide an example of how duty is calculated for frozen catfish fillets imported into the United Kingdom under HS code 030493?
Under the UK Global Tariff, the standard duty rate for HS code 030493 (frozen fish fillets, including catfish) is 14.20% ad valorem. If a UK importer brings in 500 kg of frozen catfish fillets with a declared customs value of £2,000, the duty calculation would be: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = £2,000 \times 14.20% = £284. It is essential for importers to accurately declare the customs value, which typically includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight to the UK border. For preferential rates under trade agreements, such as the UK's FTA with Vietnam (a significant catfish producer), the duty could be reduced or eliminated if the goods meet the rules of origin and proper documentation is provided. Always consult the UK Trade Tariff for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rates and origin requirements.