HS 160557 Abalone

Quick Answer: Abalone imported under HS 160557 enters the UK at 20.00% ad valorem, the EU at 20.00% ad valorem, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 20.00% ad valorem depending on the specific tariff line. This HS code specifically covers abalone, which are large marine snails, prepared or preserved. Importers should be aware that while the US offers duty-free entry under certain subheadings, others carry a significant duty. Exporters should verify the precise classification and applicable duty rates for their destination market. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist trade professionals.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1605570000 20.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1605570000 20.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
1605570500 Free — ["kg"]
160557 — — —
1605576000 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 160557 cover?

This subheading covers abalone, which are edible sea snails belonging to the family Haliotidae. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Chapter 16 pertains to "Preparations of meat, of fish, of crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates." Subheading 1605.57 specifically identifies "Abalone" as a distinct product within this chapter, encompassing both fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or simply prepared forms of this mollusc, intended for human consumption.

What falls outside HS 160557?

The following products are excluded from HS 160557: live abalone intended for aquaculture or restocking, abalone shells not prepared for ornamental use or as raw material for further manufacture, and abalone that has undergone extensive processing beyond simple preparation, such as being incorporated into complex dishes or sauces that would warrant classification under other headings in Chapter 16 or other chapters of the Harmonized System. For instance, abalone soup would likely be classified under heading 2104.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 160557?

A common error is misclassifying abalone products based on their packaging or minor processing. For example, abalone that is canned in brine might be mistakenly classified under heading 1605.90 if the preparer focuses solely on the "canned" aspect rather than the specific product. According to General Interpretative Rule 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, meaning the specific product "abalone" takes precedence.

How should importers classify products under HS 160557?

The correct procedure for classifying abalone involves first identifying the product as abalone, a marine mollusc. Importers and customs brokers must then determine its condition (e.g., fresh, frozen, dried). Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, is crucial. The specific description under subheading 1605.57 will confirm the correct classification for these preparations.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 160557?

A shipment of 100 kg of frozen abalone, declared at a customs value of $2,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $200.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($2,000 USD × 10% = $200.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 1605.57.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 160557?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 160557, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating abalone from Canada and Mexico, provided a valid USMCA certification of origin is submitted. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free rates for abalone originating from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A. The EU's trade agreements with countries like Norway may also offer preferential rates, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 160553 HS 160555 HS 160556 HS 160551 HS 160530 HS 160554

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

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 160557 (Abalone)?

The import duty rates for HS code 160557 (Abalone) vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general (MFN) duty rate is 20.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, the TARIC system typically shows a rate of 12% ad valorem for certain preparations, but live or fresh/chilled abalone may fall under different headings with varying duties. The UK Trade Tariff also lists specific rates, often around 20% ad valorem for prepared or preserved abalone. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.

How is the import duty for HS 160557 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty for HS code 160557 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if abalone valued at $10,000 USD is imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 20.00%, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.20 (Duty Rate) = $2,000 (Duty Amount). Some countries may also have specific duties based on weight or other units, so always verify the applicable duty basis.

What are the classification criteria for HS code 160557, and what distinguishes abalone from other shellfish?

HS code 160557 specifically covers 'Abalone'. Abalone are marine snails belonging to the family Haliotidae. Classification hinges on the product being identifiable as abalone, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or prepared/preserved. It is distinct from other mollusks like oysters (1605.10), mussels (1605.21-29), scallops (1605.21-29), or clams (1605.90). The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed definitions and criteria for distinguishing various marine invertebrates.

Are there any preferential duty rates or trade agreements that might affect imports of HS 160557?

Yes, preferential duty rates can significantly impact the cost of importing abalone under HS 160557. For example, if the abalone originates from a country with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country (e.g., a country party to the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement or an EU Association Agreement), it may qualify for reduced or duty-free entry. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim preferential treatment. Always check the specific FTAs between the exporting and importing countries and the product's rules of origin.

What documentation is typically required when importing abalone under HS code 160557?

Standard documentation for importing abalone (HS 160557) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the product's condition (e.g., fresh, frozen), additional documents may be required. These can include health certificates or phytosanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country, demonstrating compliance with food safety and animal health standards. For preferential duty claims, a certificate of origin is essential. Customs brokers should be consulted for a comprehensive list tailored to the specific import transaction.