HS 160210 Homogenised preparations
Quick Answer: Homogenised preparations of meat, offal, or blood imported under HS 160210 enter the UK at 16.00%, the EU at 16.60%, and the US with rates varying from 1.9% to 30%, with many trade agreements offering duty-free entry. This classification specifically covers finely pureed or mashed products derived from meat, poultry, fish, or their by-products, often intended for infant food or specialized dietary applications. Importers should verify specific product composition and origin against the detailed tariff schedules of the importing country, as the broad range of US duties highlights the importance of trade agreement eligibility. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1602100000 | 16.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1602100000 | 16.60 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 160210 | — | — | [] |
| 1602101000 | 1.9% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 16021050 | 6.4% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 1602105060 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 1602105080 | — | — | ["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 1602.10?
Imports of Homogenised preparations 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, GSP, and 16 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 160210 cover?
This subheading covers "Homogenised preparations of meat, meat offal or blood" as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. Official interpretations, such as those found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, clarify that these are products where the meat, offal, or blood has been finely divided or comminuted and then processed, often with added ingredients, to achieve a uniform consistency. These preparations are typically intended for direct consumption or further culinary use and are characterized by their smooth, paste-like texture.
What falls outside HS 160210?
The following products are excluded from HS 160210: preparations that are not homogenized, such as those containing discernible pieces of meat or offal, and products where the meat component is not the principal ingredient by weight. For instance, pâtés with visible chunks of liver, meat stews with whole pieces of meat, or sausages with a coarse grind would generally be classified under other headings within Chapter 16, such as 1601 or 1602. Products primarily composed of vegetables or other non-meat ingredients, even if processed to a paste, also fall outside this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 160210?
A common error is misinterpreting the "homogenised" requirement, leading to the classification of non-homogenized products under this subheading. This often occurs when products are finely chopped but still retain visible particulate matter. Additionally, confusion can arise with other prepared meat products, such as those covered by HS 1602, which are not specifically homogenized. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 160210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 160210 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and processing. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the meat, offal, or blood has been finely divided to achieve a homogeneous consistency. Reviewing product specifications, ingredient lists, and manufacturing processes is essential. Consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC for specific product rulings and Explanatory Notes is highly recommended to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 160210?
A specific product, "Homogenized Pork Liver Pâté," weighing 100 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 17.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 17.5% of $500 USD = $87.50. However, if the tariff schedule specifies a rate based on weight, for example, $1.75 per kilogram, the duty would be $1.75/kg × 100 kg = $175.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 160210?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 160210, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a 0% duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for goods from certain developing countries, often requiring a GSP Form A. For goods originating in the UK, preferential rates under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement can also apply, typically requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or origin declaration.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 160210 (Homogenised preparations)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 160210 is typically 16.60%. However, preferential duty rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, rates can be as low as Free (0%) for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), among others listed under specific preferential schemes. It is crucial to consult the relevant tariff schedule for the importing country and the specific trade agreement to determine the applicable preferential rate. For instance, under the USMCA, the rate for goods originating from Mexico or Canada might differ.
What are the classification criteria for goods under HS code 160210?
HS code 160210 covers 'Homogenised preparations of meat, meat offal or blood'. To be classified under this code, the product must be prepared by processes such as mincing, grinding, or blending, and then heated or otherwise processed to achieve a uniform consistency, often packaged for retail sale. The key is the 'homogenised' nature, indicating a finely divided and mixed state, typically in paste or emulsion form. Products that are merely chopped or diced without homogenization would generally fall under different subheadings within Chapter 16.
How is the import duty for HS code 160210 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 160210 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 16.60% and the declared customs value of a shipment of homogenized meat preparation is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.1660 (Duty Rate) = $1,660 USD. Some specific products or trade agreements might also involve specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always verify the exact duty calculation basis.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 160210?
Standard import documentation for HS 160210 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, due to the nature of food products, importers must provide a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific product, a phytosanitary certificate, health certificate, or import permit from the relevant food safety authority may also be required. Importers should verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 160210?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 160210. For example, the United States has agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) which can offer reduced or zero duties for goods originating from Canada and Mexico. The EU's Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) also lists preferential rates for countries with which the EU has free trade agreements, such as Switzerland, Norway, and various ACP (African, Caribbean, and Pacific) countries. The UK's tariff system similarly offers preferential rates under its various trade deals. Importers should always consult the specific tariff database (e.g., USITC, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the importing country to identify applicable preferential rates based on the origin of the goods.