HS 160555 Octopus

Quick Answer: Octopus imported under HS 160555 enters the UK at 20.00%, the EU at 20.00%, and the US with varying rates including 20% and duty-free options. This Harmonized System (HS) code specifically covers octopus, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine, excluding octopus prepared or preserved in airtight packaging. Importers should note the significant duty rate differences across major markets. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these variations is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance. Customs brokers should verify the specific subheadings and origin for precise duty determination in the US.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1605550000 20.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1605550000 20.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1605550500 Free — ["kg"]
160555 — — —
1605556000 Free — ["kg"]

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.

How Has Trade Volume Developed?

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 160555 cover?

This subheading covers octopus, prepared or preserved. 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 1605.55, as detailed in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, exclusively classifies octopus, whether whole, in pieces, or processed into various forms such as canned, frozen, or dried, provided they meet the criteria for preparation or preservation under Chapter 16.

What falls outside HS 160555?

The following products are excluded from HS 160555: live octopus, fresh or chilled octopus not otherwise prepared or preserved (which would typically fall under Chapter 03), and octopus that has undergone processing beyond simple preparation or preservation, such as being incorporated into complex dishes or meals where octopus is not the sole or principal component. For instance, octopus prepared in a sauce with other ingredients might be classified under a more specific heading depending on the dominant character of the preparation, or as a composite good under Section IV.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 160555?

A common error is misclassifying octopus products based on their packaging or minor processing steps. For example, octopus that is merely blanched or lightly seasoned without altering its fundamental nature might still fall under Chapter 03 if it's considered "fresh or chilled." Conversely, octopus that has been cooked and then frozen, or canned in oil, clearly falls under 1605.55. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which prioritizes the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid these mistakes.

How should importers classify products under HS 160555?

The correct procedure for classifying octopus products under HS 160555 involves a thorough review of the product's form and processing. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the octopus is "prepared or preserved" as defined by Chapter 16. This includes examining whether it is canned, frozen, dried, or otherwise processed in a manner that alters its natural state for preservation or consumption. Consulting the specific Explanatory Notes to HS Heading 1605 and the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is essential for accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 160555?

A 10 kg shipment of frozen, cleaned octopus, declared at a customs value of $150 USD, would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 10% × $150 USD = $15.00 USD. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) under subheading 1605.55.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 160555?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 160555, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, octopus originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preferential rate, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate declaration is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for qualifying octopus from certain developing countries, often requiring a GSP Form A certificate of origin.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 160530 HS 160510 HS 160563 HS 160557 HS 160559 HS 160554

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 1605.55 (Octopus)?

Import duty rates for HS code 1605.55 (Octopus) vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States' Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 5% ad valorem. The European Union's Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) rate is 12% ad valorem. The United Kingdom's duty rate is 12% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as these can be influenced by trade agreements and specific product preparations (e.g., fresh, chilled, frozen, prepared).

How is the duty for HS 1605.55 calculated? Can you provide an example?

The duty for HS code 1605.55 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of frozen octopus is valued at $10,000 USD and the MFN duty rate in the US is 5%, the import duty would be $10,000 USD * 0.05 = $500 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the calculation method with the destination country's customs authority.

What specific criteria define octopus for HS code 1605.55 classification?

HS code 1605.55 covers 'Other crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates, prepared or preserved.' For octopus specifically, this code applies to octopus that has undergone processing beyond simple cleaning or cutting, such as cooking, freezing, canning, or drying. Fresh or simply chilled octopus, not otherwise prepared or preserved, would typically fall under Chapter 03 of the HS nomenclature (Fish and crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates). The key is the 'prepared or preserved' status. For detailed classification notes, refer to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes.

What documentation is typically required for importing octopus under HS 1605.55?

Standard documentation for importing octopus (HS 1605.55) generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of import and the preparation of the octopus (e.g., frozen, canned), additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin, health or sanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country, and potentially import permits. Importers and customs brokers should consult the importing country's customs regulations and relevant government agencies (e.g., FDA in the US, EFSA in the EU) for a comprehensive list.

Do trade agreements, like USMCA or EU trade deals, affect the duty rates for HS 1605.55?

Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 1605.55. For example, if octopus is imported from a country that has a free trade agreement (FTA) with the importing country, it may qualify for preferential duty rates, potentially even duty-free entry, provided it meets the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. For instance, octopus imported into the US from a USMCA partner country might have a different duty rate than the standard MFN rate. Importers must obtain a valid certificate of origin to claim preferential treatment under such agreements. Always verify the specific provisions of applicable trade agreements with the customs authorities of the importing nation.