HS 160563 Jellyfish
Quick Answer: Jellyfish imported under HS 160563 enter the UK at 25.00%, the EU at 26.00%, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This Harmonized System code specifically covers prepared or preserved jellyfish. Importers and customs brokers should note that while the US offers duty-free entry, significant tariffs apply in the UK and EU. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific national tariff schedules for accurate duty calculations and compliance. Exporters should be aware of these differing tariff structures when planning shipments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1605630000 | 25.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1605630000 | 26.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1605630000 | 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?
What products does HS 160563 cover?
This subheading covers jellyfish, 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 1605.63, as implemented in various national tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, specifically designates jellyfish for classification. This includes products where jellyfish are the primary component, processed through methods such as salting, drying, or canning, ready for consumption.
What falls outside HS 160563?
The following products are excluded from HS 160563: live jellyfish, which would typically be classified under Chapter 03 (Fish and crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates). Also excluded are jellyfish that are merely dried or salted but not otherwise prepared or preserved for immediate consumption, or those used for non-food purposes such as in cosmetics or traditional medicine, which may fall under different headings based on their specific use and processing. Products containing jellyfish as a minor ingredient alongside other primary food items would also be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 160563?
A common error is misclassifying jellyfish products based on their processing method or intended use. For instance, raw, unprocessed jellyfish might be mistakenly entered under this heading instead of Chapter 03. Additionally, products where jellyfish are a secondary ingredient, such as in a mixed seafood salad, should not be classified solely under 160563 but rather under a heading that reflects the primary component or a composite good classification, following the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI).
How should importers classify products under HS 160563?
The correct procedure for classifying jellyfish products under HS 160563 involves verifying the product's form and processing. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the jellyfish are prepared or preserved, meaning they have undergone treatments beyond simple drying or salting, making them ready for consumption. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing the explanatory notes for Heading 1605 is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 160563?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of canned jellyfish, 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 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 10% of $500 USD = $50.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 1605.63.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 160563?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 160563, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and various Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) schemes. Under USMCA, originating goods from Mexico or Canada could potentially enter the US duty-free. For GSP beneficiaries, preferential rates or duty-free entry may apply, often requiring a GSP Form A. Documentation such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or the GSP Form A is typically required to claim these preferences.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 160563 (Jellyfish)?
Import duty rates for HS code 160563 (Jellyfish) can vary significantly by country. For instance, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 25.00%. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. For example, goods from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US may enter duty-free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable rate based on the origin of the goods.
How is the import duty for HS 160563 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 160563 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (based on value) or specific (based on quantity), or a combination. If the duty is ad valorem, the rate is applied to the customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 25.00% and a shipment of processed jellyfish has a customs value of $10,000, the import duty would be $10,000 \times 0.25 = $2,500. If there is a specific duty component (e.g., per kilogram), that would be calculated separately and added to the ad valorem duty.
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 160563 (Jellyfish)?
HS code 160563 specifically covers 'Jellyfish'. This classification applies to jellyfish that are prepared or preserved, but not elsewhere specified or included. This typically includes dried, salted, or otherwise processed jellyfish intended for human consumption. Raw, unprocessed jellyfish would generally not fall under this heading. It's important to ensure the product's form and processing method align with the Explanatory Notes for Chapter 16 of the Harmonized System.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 160563?
Standard import documentation for HS code 160563 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the product's origin, additional documents may be required. These could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, a phytosanitary certificate if the product is considered a plant-based foodstuff or if specific health regulations apply, and potentially import permits or licenses issued by the relevant food safety or agricultural authorities. Importers should verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 160563?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 160563 are often available through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or other preferential trade schemes. For example, the United States has FTAs with countries like Canada and Mexico (USMCA), Australia, and others, which may provide reduced or zero duty rates on eligible goods originating from these partner countries. Similarly, the European Union's TARIC system incorporates preferential rates for goods from countries with which the EU has trade agreements. Importers must ensure the jellyfish meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement to qualify for these lower rates.