HS 030821 Sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus spp., Paracentrotus lividus, Loxechinus albus, Echinus esculentus)
Quick Answer: Sea urchins imported under HS 030821 enter the UK at 10.00%, the EU at 11.00%, and the US duty-free. This Harmonized System (HS) code specifically covers live, fresh, or chilled sea urchins, including those belonging to the *Strongylocentrotus*, *Paracentrotus lividus*, *Loxechinus albus*, and *Echinus esculentus* species. These are typically the edible gonads of sea urchins. Importers and customs brokers should be aware of potential variations in import requirements and specific subheadings within the US tariff schedule that may apply. According to CustomTariffs data, the duty-free status in the US is a significant trade consideration for this product.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0308210000 | 10.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0308210000 | 11.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03082100 | Free | — | — |
| 0308210029 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0308210021 | — | — | ["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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 030821 cover?
This subheading covers live, fresh, or chilled sea urchins belonging to the scientific genera *Strongylocentrotus*, *Paracentrotus*, *Loxechinus*, and *Echinus*. As per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes the edible roe (gonads) of these echinoderms, commonly known as sea urchin roe or uni. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to the whole, unprocessed sea urchin or its roe in its natural state, intended for consumption.
What falls outside HS 030821?
The following products are excluded from HS 030821: processed sea urchin products such as frozen, dried, salted, or cooked roe, which would be classified under Chapter 16 (Preparations of meat, of fish or of other aquatic invertebrates). Also excluded are sea urchins intended for ornamental purposes or scientific research, which may fall under other chapters. For instance, live ornamental sea urchins for aquariums are typically classified under Chapter 05 or Chapter 97, depending on their specific nature and intended use, not under Chapter 03.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030821?
A common error is misclassifying processed sea urchin roe as fresh or chilled product. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Products that have undergone any form of processing beyond simple chilling or preservation, such as freezing or pasteurization, are generally excluded from heading 0308 and should be classified in Chapter 16. Importers must carefully examine the condition of the product upon importation.
How should importers classify products under HS 030821?
The correct procedure for classifying sea urchins under HS 030821 involves confirming the species and the state of the product. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product consists of live, fresh, or chilled sea urchins or their roe, and that the species align with those listed in the subheading. Reviewing the product's packaging, any processing documentation, and consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030821?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of fresh sea urchin roe, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.035 = $175.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 030821.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030821?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030821, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating sea urchins from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA country of origin certificate or a self-certified origin statement is required. Additionally, the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or zero duties for originating products from certain developing countries, requiring a EUR.1 movement certificate.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 030821 (Sea urchins)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 030821, covering live, fresh, or chilled sea urchins, is typically 3.5% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates may apply under trade agreements. For example, under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), eligible developing countries may receive duty-free entry. Always consult the latest USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the most current rates applicable to your specific import scenario.
How is the duty for HS code 030821 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 030821 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of fresh sea urchins has a customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 3.5%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 \times 0.035 = $350. It is crucial to ensure accurate valuation as this directly impacts the duty amount.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing sea urchins under HS code 030821?
When importing sea urchins (HS 030821), standard import documentation usually includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the country of import and origin, you may need health certificates, catch certificates, or permits issued by the relevant fisheries or food safety authorities to ensure compliance with import regulations and prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Are there specific trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS code 030821?
Yes, several trade agreements can impact the duty rates for HS code 030821. For instance, imports from countries with which the United States has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) may benefit from reduced or duty-free entry, provided the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in that agreement. Similarly, programs like the GSP can offer duty-free access for eligible products from designated developing countries. Importers should verify the specific preferential treatment available based on the country of origin and the applicable trade agreement.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 030821, and how do I distinguish it from other codes?
HS code 030821 specifically covers live, fresh, or chilled sea urchins. The key classification criteria are the species (e.g., Strongylocentrotus spp., Paracentrotus lividus, Loxechinus albus, Echinus esculentus) and their condition (live, fresh, or chilled). If the sea urchins are processed (e.g., frozen, dried, salted, or cooked), they would be classified under different HS codes, typically within Chapter 03 or Chapter 16, depending on the extent of processing. It's essential to accurately identify the product's state at the time of import to ensure correct classification.