HS 160530 Lobster
Quick Answer: Lobster imported under HS 160530 enters the UK at 20.00%, the EU at 20.00%, and the US with varied rates, including 20% and 10%, with some preferential rates at Free. This HS code specifically covers crustaceans, namely lobsters, whether live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations across major markets, particularly the preferential duty-free access available to certain countries in the US. For accurate, jurisdiction-specific rates, consulting detailed tariff databases like those aggregated by CustomTariffs is essential for compliance and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1605300000 | — | — | — |
| 1605301000 | — | — | — |
| 1605309000 | 20.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1605301000 | — | — | — |
| 1605309000 | 20.00 % | — | — |
| 1605300000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1605300590 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 16053005 | 10% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 1605300510 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 1605301010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 1605301030 | — | — | ["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 1605.30?
Imports of Lobster 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 160530 cover?
This subheading covers crustaceans, namely lobsters, whether live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 1605 specifically pertains to "Crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates, prepared or preserved." Subheading 1605.30 is dedicated exclusively to "Lobster." The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this specific classification for all forms of lobster.
What falls outside HS 160530?
The following products are excluded from HS 160530: other crustaceans such as crabs (HS 160510), shrimp and prawns (HS 160521-160529), and other aquatic invertebrates not classified as lobster. Products that are not prepared or preserved, such as live lobsters intended for aquarium display rather than consumption, may also fall under different headings. Furthermore, dishes or meals where lobster is merely an ingredient, rather than the primary component, would be classified based on the overall composition of the prepared foodstuff.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 160530?
A common error is misclassifying lobster products that have undergone significant processing beyond simple preparation or preservation. For instance, lobster meat incorporated into a complex prepared meal, such as a lobster bisque or a lobster-filled pasta, may not be classified under 160530 but rather under Chapter 16 headings for prepared meals or composite food preparations, according to General Rule of Interpretation 1. Confusion also arises with imitation lobster products, which are classified based on their primary constituent material.
How should importers classify products under HS 160530?
The correct procedure for classifying lobster products under HS 160530 involves a thorough examination of the product's form and preparation. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the product is indeed lobster and if it falls within the scope of "prepared or preserved" as defined by the HS. Consulting official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 160530?
A 10 kg shipment of frozen lobster tails, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $50.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.05 = $25.00), and an additional specific duty of $0.25 per kilogram ($0.25/kg × 10 kg = $2.50). The total duty is $27.50. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 1605.30.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 160530?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 160530, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty-free rate for qualifying lobster originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates for originating lobster from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid origin declaration or certificate, such as the USMCA Certificate of Origin or CPTPP Certificate of Origin, is typically required by customs authorities.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 160530 (Lobster)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 160530 (Lobster) is typically 20.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For example, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), the duty rate is Free. Other agreements may offer reduced rates, such as 10% or 20% depending on the specific country and agreement. It is crucial to verify the applicable rate based on the country of origin and any relevant trade agreements.
How is the import duty for lobster (HS 160530) calculated?
The import duty for HS 160530 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of lobster has a customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 20.00%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 * 0.20 = $2,000. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, but for HS 160530, ad valorem is most common. Always confirm the specific duty calculation method with the importing country's customs authority.
What documentation is typically required for importing lobster under HS code 160530?
Importing lobster under HS 160530 generally requires a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product (e.g., live, fresh, chilled, frozen, or prepared), additional documentation may be necessary. This can include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, health certificates or sanitary permits issued by the competent authorities of the exporting country, and potentially import licenses. Importers should consult the customs regulations of the destination country and relevant government agencies (like food safety authorities) for a comprehensive list.
Which trade agreements commonly provide preferential duty rates for lobster (HS 160530)?
Several trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates for lobster (HS 160530). For instance, the United States has agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) that may provide duty-free or reduced-duty access. The European Union's TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff list numerous preferential rates under agreements with countries such as Canada (C), various EFTA states, and specific Mediterranean countries. It is essential for importers to identify the country of origin and check the specific provisions of applicable trade agreements to determine eligibility for preferential treatment.
Are there specific classification criteria for lobster under HS code 160530 that importers should be aware of?
HS code 160530 specifically covers 'Lobsters, whether live, fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, dried, or in brine, including lobsters broken or not.' This means the classification applies regardless of the state of preservation, as long as it is lobster. It's important to distinguish this from other crustaceans (like crabs or shrimp) which fall under different HS headings. The key is that the product must be identifiable as lobster. If the product is prepared or processed in a way that fundamentally changes its nature (e.g., lobster meat incorporated into a composite dish), it might be classified elsewhere. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.