HS 151630 Microbial fats and oils and their fractions
Quick Answer: Microbial fats and oils and their fractions imported under HS 151630 enter the UK at 12.00%, the EU at 12.80%, and the US at 8.8¢/kg under the MFN rate. This classification covers fats and oils derived from microorganisms, such as bacteria, yeast, and algae, and their refined fractions. These products are distinct from animal or vegetable fats and oils. Importers should be aware that preferential trade agreements can significantly alter duty rates in the US, with many partners entering duty-free. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific rates based on origin and destination for accurate customs declarations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1516300000 | — | — | — |
| 1516309100 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 1516309800 | 10.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1516300000 | — | — | — |
| 1516309100 | 12.80 % | — | — |
| 1516309800 | 10.90 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1516300000 | 8.8¢/kg | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 1516.30?
Imports of Microbial fats and oils and their fractions may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 151630 cover?
This subheading covers microbial fats and oils and their fractions, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes fats and oils derived from microorganisms, such as yeasts and bacteria. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are distinct from animal or vegetable fats and oils, encompassing products like microbial lipids used in food, pharmaceuticals, or industrial applications.
What falls outside HS 151630?
The following products are excluded from HS 151630: fats and oils that have been chemically modified, such as through esterification or hydrogenation, which would be classified elsewhere based on their modified nature. Additionally, crude microbial fats and oils that are not yet refined, or fractions thereof, are generally included, but products that are not exclusively derived from microbial sources, or are mixtures with significant proportions of other fats and oils, would fall under different headings, such as those for vegetable or animal fats and oils.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 151630?
A common error is misclassifying microbial fats and oils that have undergone chemical modification. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a product is chemically modified, it generally falls under a more specific heading that describes the modification, rather than remaining in the general category of un-modified fats and oils under 151630. Importers must carefully review the processing of the microbial fat or oil.
How should importers classify products under HS 151630?
The correct procedure for classifying microbial fats and oils under HS 151630 involves a thorough examination of the product's origin and processing. Importers must confirm that the fat or oil is derived solely from microbial sources and has not undergone chemical modification. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and cross-referencing with WCO Explanatory Notes is crucial. Providing detailed product specifications and manufacturing processes to a customs broker ensures accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 151630?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of refined microbial lipid, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is $5,000 USD (declared value) × 0.03 (duty rate) = $150.00 (duty amount). This example assumes no preferential trade agreements apply and the product is classified under HS 151630.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 151630?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 151630, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for eligible products from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 151630, covering microbial fats and oils?
Import duty rates for HS code 151630 vary significantly by country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is typically 12.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various trade agreements can be lower or even free. For instance, goods from Australia (AU) or South Korea (KR) may benefit from preferential rates, often listed as 'Free' or a reduced percentage. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
How are microbial fats and oils classified under HS code 151630, and what are the key criteria?
HS code 151630 specifically covers 'Microbial fats and oils and their fractions'. The key classification criterion is that the fats and oils must be derived from microorganisms (such as bacteria, yeasts, or algae) through fermentation or other microbial processes. This distinguishes them from vegetable or animal fats and oils. The product must be either the crude fat/oil or a fraction thereof, meaning it has undergone some degree of separation or purification. Documentation from the supplier detailing the origin and production method of the fats and oils is crucial for customs verification.
What documentation is typically required when importing microbial fats and oils under HS 151630?
When importing goods classified under HS 151630, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. Crucially, importers and customs brokers should be prepared to provide documentation that substantiates the origin and nature of the fats and oils, confirming they are of microbial origin. This might include a manufacturer's affidavit, a certificate of origin, or detailed product specifications that outline the production process. For preferential duty claims, a valid certificate of origin compliant with the relevant trade agreement is mandatory.
How is the import duty calculated for HS 151630, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS 151630 typically depends on whether the duty rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For example, if a shipment of microbial oil has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 12.00% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.12 (Duty Rate) = $1,200 USD. If the rate were a specific duty, such as 8.8¢/kg (cents per kilogram), the calculation would be based on the net weight of the product: 1000 kg (Net Weight) × $0.088/kg (Duty Rate) = $88 USD. It's essential to know the correct rate basis (ad valorem or specific) and the applicable rate for your specific import.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS 151630, and how can importers claim these benefits?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS 151630. For instance, agreements like the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS), the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, and agreements involving countries like Chile (CL), Singapore (SG), and Peru (PE) often list 'Free' or significantly reduced duty rates for products in this category. To claim these benefits, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the specific trade agreement and possess a valid, compliant Certificate of Origin issued by the exporter or producer. This document must be presented to customs at the time of import declaration. Failure to provide proper documentation will result in the standard MFN duty rate being applied.