HS 030572 Fish heads, tails and maws

Quick Answer: Fish heads, tails, and maws imported under HS 030572 enter the UK at 12.00%, the EU at 13.00%, and the US at a rate of 2.8¢/kg under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. This classification specifically covers the heads, tails, and stomach linings (maws) of fish, excluding other fish parts. Importers and customs brokers should note that while the US offers a specific weight-based duty, the UK and EU apply ad valorem duties, meaning the tax is a percentage of the goods' value. According to CustomTariffs data, these rates are subject to change and may vary based on specific trade agreements or origin.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0305720050 12.00 % — —
0305720051 12.00 % — —
0305720052 12.00 % — —
0305720000 12.00 % — —
0305720010 12.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0305720010 13.00 % — —
0305720015 13.00 % — —
0305720000 13.00 % — —
0305720020 13.00 % — —
0305720025 13.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0305720000 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?

```html

What products does HS 030572 cover?

This subheading covers the heads, tails, and maws of fish, whether dried, salted, or in brine, but not otherwise prepared or preserved. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is specifically for these distinct parts of fish that have undergone minimal processing. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these items are distinct from whole fish or fillets and are intended for specific culinary uses or further processing.

What falls outside HS 030572?

The following products are excluded from HS 030572: whole fish (even if dried, salted, or in brine), fish fillets, fish steaks, and fish roe. Additionally, any fish heads, tails, or maws that have been cooked, smoked, or otherwise prepared or preserved beyond simple drying, salting, or brining are classified elsewhere. For instance, canned fish heads would fall under Chapter 16, and fish heads that have been ground into a paste would likely be classified based on their predominant form and preparation.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 030572?

A common error is misclassifying fish heads, tails, or maws that have undergone additional processing. For example, if these parts are seasoned, marinated, or mixed with other ingredients, they may no longer qualify for this subheading and could be subject to classification under Chapter 16 (Preparations of meat, of fish, of crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates). Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System is crucial to ensure correct classification based on the essential character of the product.

How should importers classify products under HS 030572?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030572 involves a thorough examination of the product's form and processing. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the goods are indeed fish heads, tails, or maws and that they have only been dried, salted, or put in brine. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing the explanatory notes for Heading 0305 is essential to confirm the scope of this subheading.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030572?

A shipment of dried cod heads weighing 100 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 30% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 30% = $150.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 0305.72.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030572?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030572, 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 preferential treatment, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is typically required. Additionally, some developing countries may benefit from preferential rates under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), requiring a GSP Form A for documentation.

```

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 030571 HS 030552 HS 030562 HS 030542 HS 030532 HS 030520

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 0305.72 (Fish heads, tails and maws)?

Import duty rates for HS code 0305.72, covering fish heads, tails, and maws, vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may offer different terms. The EU's TARIC system and the UK's Trade Tariff also list specific rates, which can include ad valorem duties or specific duties per kilogram, often influenced by the origin of the goods and applicable trade agreements. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.

How is the import duty for HS 0305.72 calculated if it's a specific duty rate (e.g., per kilogram)?

When a specific duty rate is applied, such as $0.028 per kilogram (as seen in some tariff schedules), the calculation is straightforward. For instance, if you import 10,000 kilograms of fish heads, tails, and maws subject to a rate of $0.028/kg, the total duty would be 10,000 kg * $0.028/kg = $280.00. It is crucial to verify the exact unit of measure (e.g., kg, lb) and the precise rate applicable to your shipment's origin and destination.

What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 0305.72?

Standard documentation for importing fish heads, tails, and maws (HS 0305.72) generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific product, you may also need a certificate of origin, a phytosanitary certificate, or specific health and safety declarations to ensure compliance with food safety standards. Customs brokers should verify the exact requirements with the importing country's customs authority.

Are there common trade agreements that provide preferential duty rates for HS 0305.72?

Yes, many trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates for HS code 0305.72. For example, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or the EU's Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) with various countries often provide reduced or duty-free access for qualifying goods based on rules of origin. Importers should investigate if their goods qualify for preferential treatment under any applicable Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or other trade pacts between the exporting and importing countries to potentially reduce duty costs.

What are the classification criteria for HS code 0305.72, and can other fish parts be included?

HS code 0305.72 specifically covers 'Fish heads, tails and maws'. This means the classification is limited to these particular parts of fish. Other fish parts, such as fins, bones, or skin, would likely be classified under different headings or subheadings within Chapter 3 of the Harmonized System, depending on their specific nature and processing. For example, fish fins might fall under 0305.71 if they are dried, salted, or in brine, or potentially elsewhere if processed differently. Accurate classification relies on the precise description of the goods being imported.