HS 160551 Molluscs

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 1605.51, covering 'Other molluscs', can vary by importing country. For example, the U.S. tariff rate is 0% ad valorem (Free). In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be 12% ad valorem for third countries, with potential reductions under preferential agreements. The UK Trade Tariff also lists various rates, often around 0% to 20% ad valorem depending on the specific product and origin. Importers should always verify the applicable rate for their specific destination country and the origin of the goods.

Duty calculation for HS 1605.51 typically involves an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of weight or quantity), or a combination. For instance, if importing 'Other molluscs' into a country with a 5% ad valorem duty rate and the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of the shipment is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (CIF Value) × 5% (Duty Rate) = $500. If there were also a specific duty, such as $0.50 per kilogram, and the shipment weighed 1,000 kg, an additional $500 (1,000 kg × $0.50/kg) would be applied, for a total duty of $1,000.

HS code 1605.51 falls under Chapter 16, which covers 'Preparations of meat, of fish, of crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates'. Specifically, heading 16.05 covers 'Crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates, prepared or preserved'. Subheading 1605.51 is for 'Other molluscs', which includes molluscs not elsewhere specified in headings 1605.10 through 1605.50. This typically encompasses a wide range of edible molluscs such as clams, mussels, oysters, scallops, squid, and octopus, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine, and prepared or preserved in any way (e.g., canned, cooked, or in sauces), provided they are not classified under more specific subheadings within 1605.

Standard documentation for importing molluscs under HS 1605.51 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value and description of the goods, a packing list specifying the contents of each package, and a bill of lading or air waybill for transport. Depending on the country of import and the nature of the product (e.g., fresh, frozen, processed), additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, import permits, health certificates or phytosanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country to ensure food safety and compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, and potentially inspection certificates.

Preferential duty rates for HS 1605.51 can be accessed through various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade schemes. For example, imports into the European Union from countries with an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) or Association Agreement may benefit from reduced or zero duties. Similarly, the United States has FTAs with countries like Canada and Mexico (USMCA), Australia, and others, which could impact duties on molluscs if they meet the rules of origin. The UK also has numerous trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers must consult the specific trade agreement between the exporting and importing countries and ensure their goods meet the relevant 'rules of origin' to qualify for preferential treatment.