HS 030751 Octopus (Octopus spp.)
Quick Answer: Octopus (Octopus spp.) imported under HS 030751 enters the UK at 8.00% ad valorem, the EU at 8.00% ad valorem, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers live, fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, or dried octopus, excluding octopus prepared or preserved in any way not covered by these conditions. Importers should note that while the US offers duty-free entry, the EU and UK impose a significant ad valorem duty. According to CustomTariffs data, careful attention to the specific condition of the octopus (live, fresh, frozen, etc.) is crucial for accurate classification and duty assessment across these major markets.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0307510000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0307510000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0307510000 | 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 030751 cover?
This subheading covers live, fresh, or chilled octopus (Octopus spp.). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to whole cephalopods of the genus Octopus, intended for direct human consumption or further processing. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses octopus in its raw, unprocessed state, whether presented live, as fresh fillets, or chilled for preservation.
What falls outside HS 030751?
The following products are excluded from HS 030751: octopus that has been cooked, dried, salted, or preserved in brine or other ways that alter its initial state. For instance, canned octopus, octopus prepared in sauces, or smoked octopus would be classified under different headings, typically within Chapter 16 (Preparations of meat, of fish, of crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates). Frozen octopus, while often closely related, is classified under HS 0307.59, not 0307.51.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030751?
A common error is misclassifying frozen octopus under this subheading. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. For Chapter 03, specific subheadings differentiate between fresh/chilled and frozen products. Importers may also mistakenly classify octopus preparations, such as octopus in oil or octopus seasoned for cooking, under 0307.51, when these belong to Chapter 16.
How should importers classify products under HS 030751?
The correct procedure for classifying octopus under HS 030751 involves verifying the product's condition. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the octopus is presented live, fresh, or chilled, and has not undergone any preservation processes beyond chilling. Reviewing the product's packaging, accompanying documentation, and the specific definitions within the relevant tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030751?
A shipment of fresh octopus fillets weighing 100 kilograms and 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 declared value ($500 USD × 0.03 = $15.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 0307.51.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030751?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030751. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), octopus originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for duty-free entry. The EU's agreements with certain countries, like Norway, can also offer preferential rates. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a EUR.1 movement certificate for EU preferences, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 030751 (Octopus)?
The import duty rates for HS code 030751 (Octopus) vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. For instance, imports from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US may be eligible for duty-free entry. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for any preferential treatment. The EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff also provide detailed duty rate information for this heading.
How is the import duty for HS 030751 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 030751 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if octopus valued at $10,000 is imported into the US and subject to the MFN duty rate of 8.00%, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.08 (Duty Rate) = $800. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always confirm the applicable duty calculation method with the customs authority of the importing country.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 030751?
HS code 030751 specifically covers 'Octopus (Octopus spp.)'. This classification applies to live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or otherwise preserved octopus, excluding octopus prepared or preserved in a manner not specified or included elsewhere in heading 0307. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides explanatory notes that clarify the scope of this heading, generally focusing on the species and the state of the product. Importers must ensure the product is indeed octopus and not another cephalopod to maintain correct classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing octopus under HS code 030751?
Standard import documentation for HS code 030751 typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the condition of the octopus (e.g., fresh, frozen), additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin (especially if claiming preferential duty rates), health certificates or phytosanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country to ensure food safety and compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, and potentially import permits. Customs brokers should verify the exact requirements with the destination country's customs and food safety agencies.
Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for octopus imports under HS code 030751?
Several trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 030751. For example, the United States has FTAs with countries like Canada and Mexico (USMCA), Australia, and others, which may provide duty-free or reduced-duty access for octopus. The European Union has numerous trade agreements with third countries that could affect imports into the EU. Similarly, the UK has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers should consult the preferential tariff schedules associated with agreements like the USMCA, EU Association Agreements, or the UK's Global Tariff to determine eligibility for reduced or eliminated duties based on the origin of the octopus.