HS 350300 Gelatin and derivatives thereof
Quick Answer: Gelatin and its derivatives imported under HS 350300 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 7.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates varying from 1.2¢/kg + 1.5% to 17.6¢/kg + 25%, with many preferential rates being free. This classification covers gelatin derived from animal collagen, commonly used in food, pharmaceuticals, and photography, as well as its chemical modifications like peptones and collagen hydrolysates. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities across major trading blocs. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these variations is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and strategic sourcing.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3503001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3503008000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3503008000 | 7.70 % | — | — |
| 3503001000 | 7.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3503005510 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 3503001000 | 1.2¢/kg + 1.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3503004000 | 2.8¢/kg + 3.8% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3503005520 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 350300 | — | — | — |
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 3503.00?
Imports of Gelatin and derivatives thereof 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, GSP, 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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 350300 cover?
This subheading covers gelatin and its derivatives, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. This includes gelatin derived from animal bones, skins, and connective tissues, as well as modified gelatin and gelatin derivatives. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that products intended for food, pharmaceutical, photographic, or technical uses fall within this classification, provided they meet the specific characteristics of gelatin.
What falls outside HS 350300?
The following products are excluded from HS 350300: collagen, which is a precursor to gelatin but not gelatin itself; protein hydrolysates not specifically derived from gelatin; and other protein substances not classified as gelatin or its derivatives. For instance, vegetable-based gelling agents like agar-agar (HS 1302.32) or pectin (HS 2008.99) are classified separately, as are animal casings not processed into gelatin.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 350300?
A common error is misclassifying gelatin-based products based on their end-use rather than their inherent composition. For example, gelatin capsules for pharmaceuticals are classified under HS 350300, not as a finished pharmaceutical product. Another mistake involves confusing gelatin with other gelling agents; General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures and composite goods may be relevant if gelatin is a significant component of a more complex product.
How should importers classify products under HS 350300?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 350300 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff, to confirm the product meets the definition of gelatin or its derivatives. Key factors include the source material (animal origin) and processing method.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 350300?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of food-grade gelatin, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 350300?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 350300, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating gelatin from Canada or Mexico can enter the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for originating goods from certain developing countries, often requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for gelatin and its derivatives (HS 350300)?
Import duty rates for HS 350300 vary significantly by country. For example, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. In the European Union, under TARIC, the rate can be 7.70% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff lists a duty of 1.2¢/kg + 1.5% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable rate.
How is the duty calculated for HS 350300, and can you provide an example?
Duty calculation for HS 350300 can be based on ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific duties (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For instance, if a shipment of gelatin is subject to a rate of 1.2¢/kg + 1.5% ad valorem (as seen in some UK tariffs), and the shipment weighs 1000 kg with a declared value of $5,000 USD (equivalent to approximately £4,000 GBP at a given exchange rate), the duty would be calculated as: (1000 kg * 1.2¢/kg) + (1.5% of £4,000 GBP). This would be 1200¢ (or $12.00 USD) + £60.00 GBP. Always ensure you use the correct currency and exchange rate as per the importing country's regulations.
What are the key classification criteria for gelatin and its derivatives under HS 350300?
HS 350300 covers gelatin, whether derived from animal bones or skins, and its derivatives. This includes products like ossein (a precursor to gelatin) and collagen. The key is the origin and processing; it must be a proteinaceous substance obtained from collagenous raw material of animal origin. Products that are chemically modified beyond simple extraction or purification, or those mixed with other substances to create a final product for a specific use (e.g., food additives with other ingredients), may fall under different HS codes. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
Which trade agreements commonly provide preferential duty rates for HS 350300?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 350300. For example, under the U.S. tariff schedule, preferential rates are often available for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR) under agreements such as USMCA, CAFTA-DR, and bilateral FTAs. The EU and UK also have extensive networks of trade agreements offering reduced or zero duties. Importers must verify the specific rules of origin and eligibility requirements for each trade agreement to claim preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required when importing gelatin and its derivatives (HS 350300)?
Standard import documentation for HS 350300 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the intended use of the gelatin, additional documents may be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential treatment, a health certificate or veterinary import permit to ensure compliance with animal product regulations, and potentially a technical data sheet or specification sheet confirming the product's composition and grade. Always check with the customs authority of the destination country for precise requirements.