HS 030830 Jellyfish (Rhopilema spp.)
Quick Answer: Jellyfish (Rhopilema spp.) imported under HS 030830 enters the UK at 0.00% ad valorem, the EU at 0.00% ad valorem, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers jellyfish, primarily of the genus Rhopilema, intended for human consumption or other commercial uses. Importers should be aware that while the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates in the US are duty-free, the UK and EU offer preferential duty rates under certain trade agreements, which can vary. According to CustomTariffs data, specific subheadings within these jurisdictions may apply different rates, necessitating careful verification based on the exact product form and intended use.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0308300000 | — | — | — |
| 0308305000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0308308000 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0308308010 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0308308090 | 10.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0308305000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0308300000 | — | — | — |
| 0308308000 | 11.00 % | — | — |
| 0308308010 | 11.00 % | — | — |
| 0308308090 | 11.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0308300000 | 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 030830 cover?
This subheading covers jellyfish of the genus Rhopleima spp. These are marine invertebrates belonging to the phylum Cnidaria, specifically prepared or preserved. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this heading encompasses edible jellyfish, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine, provided they are intended for human consumption or other commercial uses as specified by national tariff schedules. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the species Rhopleima spp. as the primary subject.
What falls outside HS 030830?
The following products are excluded from HS 030830: jellyfish not of the genus Rhopleima spp., which would be classified under other subheadings within 0308 if they are edible and prepared or preserved, or under Chapter 29 if they are chemically pure substances. Also excluded are ornamental jellyfish not intended for consumption, live jellyfish (which fall under Chapter 01), and products where jellyfish is merely an ingredient in a more complex preparation, such as a jellyfish salad or a mixed seafood dish, which would be classified based on the predominant component or the nature of the preparation itself, often under Chapter 16.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030830?
A common error is misclassifying jellyfish preparations that contain other significant ingredients. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3, when goods are classifiable by virtue of being a mixture or composite good, classification is determined by the essential character of the goods. For instance, a jellyfish salad with a high proportion of vegetables or sauces might be classified under Chapter 21 or 16, not 030830. Another mistake is classifying non-edible or ornamental jellyfish under this heading, which are typically excluded from Chapter 03.
How should importers classify products under HS 030830?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030830 involves verifying the species and preparation method. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the product is indeed jellyfish of the genus Rhopleima spp. and that it is prepared or preserved for trade. Reviewing product specifications, supplier declarations, and consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC is crucial. If the product is a mixture, the essential character must be determined to ensure correct classification, potentially leading to a different HS code.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030830?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of dried jellyfish (Rhopilema spp.) declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $100.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 20% ad valorem, applied to the customs value. The calculation is: 20% × $500 USD = $100.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) under subheading 0308.30.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030830?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030830. For imports into the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) can provide duty-free entry for qualifying goods originating from Mexico or Canada. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries, such as Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid GSP Form A or a self-certified origin statement, as per USMCA requirements, is typically necessary.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030830 (Jellyfish)?
The import duty rates for HS code 030830 (Jellyfish, excluding live) vary significantly by country. For example, the United States applies a 0.00% Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate. The European Union, under the TARIC system, may have rates such as 3.5% ad valorem for certain origins. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists varying rates, often around 0% or specific rates depending on the product's form and origin. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact applicable duty.
How is the import duty for jellyfish calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty calculation depends on whether the rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For an ad valorem rate, the duty is calculated as: Value of Goods × Ad Valorem Duty Rate. For example, if jellyfish are imported with a customs value of $10,000 USD and the MFN duty rate is 3.5%, the duty would be $10,000 × 0.035 = $350. If a specific duty applies, such as $0.50 per kilogram, and 1,000 kg are imported, the duty would be 1,000 kg × $0.50/kg = $500. Always verify the specific duty basis (ad valorem or specific) and the applicable rate for your import.
What documentation is typically required for importing jellyfish under HS code 030830?
Standard import documentation for HS code 030830 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the product's condition (e.g., fresh, frozen, dried, or processed), additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin, import permits, health certificates or phytosanitary certificates to ensure compliance with food safety and animal health regulations, and potentially specific declarations related to the species or processing method. Always check with the customs authority of the destination country for precise requirements.
Are there preferential duty rates available for jellyfish (HS 030830) under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates for HS code 030830 are often available under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade schemes. For instance, imports into the EU from countries with an FTA might benefit from reduced or zero duties. Similarly, the US has FTAs that could impact duties on jellyfish imports from partner nations. Importers should verify if their country of origin has an active trade agreement with the importing country and if jellyfish (HS 030830) are covered by the agreement's tariff concessions. This often requires a valid Certificate of Origin.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030830 (Jellyfish)?
HS code 030830 specifically covers 'Jellyfish (Rhopilema spp.)'. The primary classification criterion is the biological identification of the product as jellyfish, particularly from the genus Rhoplema, though other jellyfish species may fall under this heading depending on national tariff interpretations. The product must not be live. It typically applies to jellyfish that are fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine, but not further prepared or preserved in a way that would alter their essential character or place them in a different HS chapter (e.g., Chapter 16 for prepared dishes). Verification of the species and the form of presentation is critical for accurate classification.