HS 030544 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, catfishes, carps, eels, Nile perch, and snakeheads imported under HS 030544 enter the UK at 14.00%, the EU at 14.00%, and the US at 6.6¢/kg under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers various species of freshwater fish, including tilapia (Oreochromis spp.), catfish (Pangasius spp., Silurus spp., Clarias spp., Ictalurus spp.), carp (Cyprinus spp., Carassius spp., etc.), eels (Anguilla spp.), Nile perch (Lates niloticus), and snakeheads (Channa spp.). Importers should be aware of these differing duty structures across major markets. CustomTariffs data highlights these variations, which are crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0305440000 | — | — | — |
| 0305441000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0305449000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0305449010 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0305449090 | 14.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0305440000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0305449000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0305449090 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0305441000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0305449010 | 14.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0305440100 | 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 030544 cover?
This subheading covers certain dried, salted, or brined fish, specifically including fillets and other meat 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.). This classification is based on the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, which provides a standardized system for classifying traded products globally.
What falls outside HS 030544?
The following products are excluded from HS 030544: fish that are fresh, chilled, or frozen; fish that are smoked; fish that are cooked or prepared in any way; and fish that are not specifically listed within the subheading's scope, such as salmon, cod, or tuna, which would fall under different HS codes within Chapter 03. For instance, smoked salmon would typically be classified under HS 0305.69.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030544?
A common error is misclassifying fish based on processing method. For example, mistaking dried or salted fish for smoked fish, which is classified under a different subheading. Another frequent mistake involves misidentifying the species of fish, especially when common names are used interchangeably. Adherence to the specific scientific names and the precise definitions provided in the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, as well as national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, is crucial to avoid misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 030544?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030544 involves a multi-step process. First, identify the exact species of fish being imported. Second, determine the precise processing method (e.g., dried, salted, brined). Third, consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU's TARIC database, to locate the most specific subheading that accurately describes the product. Importers and customs brokers must meticulously review the product's characteristics against the legal text of the tariff.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030544?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of dried tilapia fillets, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,000. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 20% ad valorem (20% × $5,000 USD = $1,000 USD). It is imperative to verify the exact duty rate applicable at the time of import, as rates can change.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030544?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030544. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating goods from Canada and Mexico may enter duty-free. Similarly, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) allows eligible developing countries to export certain goods to the US at reduced or zero duty rates. To claim these preferences, importers typically need to provide a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```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 HS code 030544 (certain fish, fresh, chilled or frozen, fillets and other meat of fish)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 030544 is typically 14.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the U.S. might benefit from reduced or zero duties. It is crucial to consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and verify the specific origin of the goods and applicable trade agreements to determine the correct duty rate. The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) provides the official HTSUS.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 030544, specifically for frozen tilapia fillets imported into the U.S. at a rate of 14.00% ad valorem?
The duty for HS code 030544 is calculated as a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods (ad valorem). For example, if a U.S. importer brings in 1,000 kg of frozen tilapia fillets valued at $5,000 USD, and the MFN duty rate is 14.00%, the calculation would be: $5,000 (value) × 0.14 (duty rate) = $700 USD (duty amount). This calculation is based on the customs value of the goods.
What specific types of fish are covered under HS code 030544, and are there any classification nuances?
HS code 030544 specifically covers certain fish, including 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.), when presented fresh, chilled, or frozen, and as fillets or other meat. The classification hinges on the exact species and the form of presentation. For instance, live fish or whole fish not processed beyond chilling or freezing would fall under different headings. Accurate identification of the species is critical for correct classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 030544 into the United States?
When importing goods under HS code 030544 into the United States, standard import documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, importers must ensure compliance with regulations from agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for food safety. A valid import license or permit may be necessary depending on the specific product and origin. Customs brokers play a vital role in ensuring all required documentation is accurate and submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in a timely manner.
Do trade agreements like CAFTA-DR or USMCA offer preferential duty rates for HS code 030544?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 030544. For example, goods originating from countries party to the Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) or the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may be eligible for preferential duty rates, potentially including duty-free entry, provided they meet the rules of origin stipulated in these agreements. Importers must obtain a Certificate of Origin from the exporter and ensure the goods comply with the specific origin requirements to claim these benefits. Consulting the HTSUS and the text of the relevant trade agreement is essential for verification.