HS 030559 Other
Quick Answer: Fish, dried, salted or in brine, not smoked, imported under HS 030559 enters the UK at 14.00%, the EU at 12.00%, and the US at 2.8¢/kg (MFN). This residual classification applies to dried, salted, or brined fish, excluding smoked varieties, that do not fit into more specific subheadings within Chapter 03. Importers should carefully verify the specific processing and preservation methods to ensure correct classification, as variations can lead to different duty rates. According to CustomTariffs data, significant duty differentials exist between major trading blocs for these products, necessitating thorough tariff research.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0305590000 | — | — | — |
| 0305597000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 0305598500 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0305598540 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0305598545 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0305590000 | — | — | — |
| 0305598500 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0305598545 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0305598564 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0305598567 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0305590001 | 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 030559 cover?
This subheading covers other fish, dried, salted or in brine, not smoked, not cooked, not otherwise prepared, and not fillets. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, this category is a residual one for dried, salted, or brined fish that do not fit into more specific subheadings within heading 0305. It specifically excludes fish that have undergone smoking, cooking, or any other form of preparation beyond simple drying, salting, or brining.
What falls outside HS 030559?
The following products are excluded from HS 030559: smoked fish (classified under 030531-030539), cooked fish (classified under 0304), fish fillets (classified under 0304), and fish that have been otherwise prepared, such as marinated or canned. For instance, dried anchovies that have been lightly seasoned or packed in oil would not fall under this subheading and would likely be classified under a more specific heading for prepared or preserved fish, such as heading 1604.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030559?
A common error is misinterpreting the "other" designation, leading to the classification of prepared or cooked fish into this subheading. For example, fish that have been dried and then lightly seasoned or treated with preservatives beyond simple salt or brine might be mistakenly classified here. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), mixtures are classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character, which is often overlooked when dealing with minimally processed products.
How should importers classify products under HS 030559?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030559 involves a thorough examination of the product's processing. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the fish is exclusively dried, salted, or in brine, and has not undergone any smoking, cooking, or other preparation. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial to confirm that the product does not meet the criteria for a more specific subheading or heading within Chapter 03 or elsewhere.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030559?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of dried salted cod, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 30% ad valorem (0.30 × $500 USD = $150.00). It is important to note that specific quantities might also be subject to per-kilogram duties in some jurisdictions, but for this example, the ad valorem rate is applied to the declared value.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030559?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030559, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. For goods originating from countries that are beneficiaries of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, a GSP Form A may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates, which can be significantly lower than the MFN rate.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030559 (Dried, salted or brined fish, fillets and other fish meat, whether or not smoked, excluding edible fish offal)?
HS code 030559 covers 'Other' dried, salted or brined fish, fillets and other fish meat, not elsewhere specified within heading 0305. Duty rates vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 4% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under 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 rates.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 030559 if the duty is based on weight and value?
Some countries apply a combination of ad valorem (based on value) and specific duties (based on weight or quantity). For example, if a country has a duty rate of 2.8¢/kg and an ad valorem rate of 4%, and you import 1000 kg of fish valued at $5,000, the calculation would be: (1000 kg * $0.028/kg) + (4% of $5,000) = $28 + $200 = $228. It is crucial to understand how the duty is calculated, as it can be a combination of rates.
What documentation is generally required when importing goods classified under HS code 030559?
When importing goods under HS code 030559, standard documentation typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific type of fish product, additional documents may be required, such as health certificates, phytosanitary certificates, or specific import permits issued by the relevant food safety or fisheries authorities. It is advisable to verify these requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.
Are there specific trade agreements that commonly provide preferential duty rates for HS code 030559?
Yes, numerous trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 030559. For example, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) often provides preferential treatment for goods traded between these North American countries. Similarly, agreements like the EU's Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) with African, Caribbean, and Pacific states, or the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP), can offer reduced or zero duty rates for originating products. Importers should always verify the rules of origin and eligibility under applicable trade agreements.
What are the key criteria for classifying fish products under HS code 030559 as 'Other'?
HS code 030559 is a residual category. Fish products are classified under this code if they are dried, salted, or brined, and are in the form of fillets or other fish meat, but do not fit into more specific subheadings within heading 0305 (e.g., specific fish species or forms like whole fish). The key criteria are the processing method (dried, salted, brined, smoked) and the form (fillets or other meat), provided it's not covered by a more precise classification. If the product is a whole fish, or a specific cut not considered 'fillet or other meat' and not otherwise specified, it would likely fall here. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) and national tariff rulings can provide further clarity on classification nuances.