HS 160418 Shark fins

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What products does HS 160418 cover?

This subheading covers shark fins, whether dried, salted, or in brine, intended for consumption. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification falls under Heading 1604, which pertains to prepared or preserved fish and crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates. Official definitions, such as those found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, confirm that raw, processed, or dried shark fins are specifically included here, provided they are not further prepared beyond simple preservation methods.

What falls outside HS 160418?

The following products are excluded from HS 160418: shark meat, which is classified under other subheadings within Heading 1604 or Heading 0304 depending on its preparation; shark liver oils and their fractions, which are typically classified under Heading 1504; and any shark products that have undergone significant cooking, flavoring, or other preparation beyond simple drying, salting, or brining, which would lead to classification under more specific prepared food headings. Products intended for non-food uses, such as medicinal or industrial applications, would also be classified elsewhere.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 160418?

A common error is misclassifying shark fins that have undergone further processing, such as being incorporated into soups or other composite dishes. 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 shark fins are merely dried, salted, or in brine, they belong to 160418. However, if they are part of a ready-to-eat meal or a complex preparation, they would be classified under a more specific heading based on the predominant character of the final product.

How should importers classify products under HS 160418?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 160418 involves a thorough examination of the product's form and preparation. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product consists solely of shark fins that have been dried, salted, or preserved in brine. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial. If the product is a composite good or has undergone further processing, a detailed analysis against the relevant headings and GRIs is necessary to ensure accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 160418?

A shipment of 100 kilograms of dried shark fins, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,000.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 20% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is: 20% of $5,000 USD = $1,000.00. This rate applies to goods from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements or specific tariff treatments.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 160418?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 160418, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating shark fins from Canada or Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration or certificate, as specified by USMCA regulations, is required. While not a free trade agreement, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced rates for certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A to be presented.

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