HS 030731 Mussels (Mytilus spp., Perna spp.)
Quick Answer: Mussels (Mytilus spp., Perna spp.) imported under HS 030731 enter the UK and EU at 10.00% ad valorem, while entering the US duty-free under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers live, fresh, or chilled mussels, excluding those that are simply dried, salted, or in brine. Importers should be aware that while the US offers duty-free entry, specific import regulations for live shellfish may still apply. For the UK and EU, the 10% duty rate is a consistent MFN tariff. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the significant duty differential between major trading blocs for this product.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0307310000 | — | — | — |
| 0307311000 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0307311010 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0307311090 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0307319000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0307310000 | — | — | — |
| 0307311000 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0307311010 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0307311090 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0307319000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0307310010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0307310090 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 03073100 | Free | — | — |
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 030731 cover?
This subheading covers mussels, specifically those belonging to the genera *Mytilus* and *Perna*. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes live, fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, or dried mussels. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this definition, encompassing mussels intended for human consumption or further processing, provided they meet the genus and species criteria outlined in the HS Explanatory Notes.
What falls outside HS 030731?
The following products are excluded from HS 030731: other bivalve molluscs such as oysters (HS 030721), scallops (HS 030721), clams (HS 030721), and other shellfish not belonging to the *Mytilus* or *Perna* genera. Additionally, products that have undergone significant processing beyond simple preservation, such as being incorporated into prepared meals or dishes classified under Chapter 16, would not fall under this subheading. Mussels intended for aquaculture or scientific research may also be classified elsewhere depending on their specific use and presentation.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030731?
A common error is misclassifying mussels that have been mixed with other seafood or ingredients. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are mixed or composed of different materials, they are generally classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. Importers may also incorrectly classify mussels that have undergone minor preparation, such as being shelled or cooked, under this subheading when they should be classified under more specific headings for prepared or preserved seafood, often falling under HS Chapter 16.
How should importers classify products under HS 030731?
The correct procedure for classifying mussels under HS 030731 involves confirming the species of mussel and its condition. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed from the *Mytilus* or *Perna* genera and that it is presented in a form covered by the subheading, such as live, fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, or dried. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030731?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of frozen mussels (*Mytilus edulis*) declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem applied to the customs value ($500 USD × 0.03 = $15.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 030731, which specifies an ad valorem rate for frozen mussels.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030731?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030731, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, mussels originating from Canada or Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preferential rate, a valid origin declaration or certificate of origin is typically required. Additionally, for mussels originating from countries that are beneficiaries of the US Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a GSP Form A may be necessary to obtain reduced or duty-free entry into the United States, though specific product eligibility varies.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 030731 (Mussels)?
The import duty rates for HS code 030731 (Mussels, live, fresh or chilled) vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is Free. However, preferential rates may apply under Free Trade Agreements. For the European Union, the TARIC system indicates a duty rate of 5.00% ad valorem for mussels from most third countries, but specific preferential rates can be found for partner countries. The UK Trade Tariff also lists specific rates, often Free or low percentages for goods from certain trade partners. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information.
How are mussels classified under HS code 030731, and what are the key classification criteria?
HS code 030731 specifically covers 'Mussels (Mytilus spp., Perna spp.)', live, fresh or chilled. The classification hinges on two primary criteria: the species of mussel and its condition. 'Mytilus spp.' refers to mussels of the genus Mytilus (e.g., blue mussels), and 'Perna spp.' refers to mussels of the genus Perna (e.g., green-lipped mussels). The condition must be 'live, fresh or chilled'. Mussels that are frozen, salted, dried, or cooked would fall under different subheadings within Chapter 03. Importers must ensure the product meets these specific criteria to use this HS code correctly.
What documentation is typically required for importing mussels under HS code 030731?
Importing mussels under HS code 030731 generally requires specific documentation to ensure compliance with food safety and customs regulations. Essential documents often include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. Crucially, health certificates or phytosanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country are usually mandatory, attesting to the sanitary and health conditions of the mussels. Importers should also be prepared for potential inspections by food safety agencies in the destination country. Always verify the exact requirements with the customs authorities of the importing nation.
How is the import duty for mussels calculated using HS code 030731? Provide an example.
The calculation of import duty depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For HS code 030731, duties are often ad valorem. Let's assume an importing country applies a 5.00% ad valorem duty rate and the declared customs value of a shipment of fresh mussels is $10,000 USD. The duty calculation would be: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this example: Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 5.00% = $500 USD. If a specific duty component were also present (e.g., $0.50 per kilogram), the total duty would be the sum of the ad valorem duty and the specific duty calculated on the net weight of the mussels. Always confirm the exact duty calculation method with the importing country's customs tariff.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for mussels imported under HS code 030731?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for mussels (HS 030731). For instance, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Canada and Mexico (USMCA), and other agreements that might reduce or eliminate duties on seafood products. The European Union has numerous Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and Association Agreements with countries worldwide, which often include provisions for reduced tariffs on agricultural and fishery products. The UK, post-Brexit, has established its own set of trade agreements, including continuity trade agreements with many countries previously covered by EU agreements. To determine eligibility for preferential rates, importers must ensure the mussels originate from a country that is a party to a relevant trade agreement and that they can provide a valid Certificate of Origin or other proof of preferential origin as required by the agreement.