HS 988016 Classified in Chapter 16
Quick Answer: Products classified under HS code 988016 enter the UK at N/A and the EU at N/A. This code pertains to goods falling within Chapter 16 of the Harmonized System, which covers preparations of meat, fish, crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates. These preparations can include items like sausages, pâtés, and canned seafood. Importers and customs brokers should note that specific duty rates can vary significantly based on the exact product and its origin, and it is crucial to consult the latest tariff schedules for accurate classification and duty assessment. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880160000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880160000 | — | — | — |
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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 988016 cover?
This subheading covers products classified within Chapter 16 of the Harmonized System (HS) nomenclature, which pertains to preparations of meat, of fish or of crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) HS Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, this includes items such as sausages, hams, cooked or preserved meats, fish fillets, prepared shellfish, and other processed aquatic products, provided they meet the specific criteria outlined in Chapter 16 notes.
What falls outside HS 988016?
The following products are excluded from HS 988016: live animals (Chapter 01), meat and edible meat offal in their natural state (Chapter 02), fish and crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates in their natural state (Chapter 03), and edible vegetables and certain roots and tubers (Chapter 07). For instance, raw, unprocessed fish fillets would be classified under Chapter 03, not Chapter 16, and fresh sausages intended for immediate consumption without further processing might also fall outside the scope of prepared goods in Chapter 16.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 988016?
A common error is misinterpreting the degree of processing required for classification under Chapter 16. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) dictates that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. For example, products that are merely seasoned or lightly cooked but retain their raw character may be incorrectly classified here, when they should remain in Chapters 02 or 03. Conversely, products with extensive processing beyond simple preparation might be classified too broadly under Chapter 16.
How should importers classify products under HS 988016?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 988016 involves a thorough review of the product's ingredients, processing methods, and final presentation against the specific Chapter 16 notes and headings. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official HS Explanatory Notes and the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to ensure accurate determination. This includes verifying if the product meets the definition of "prepared" or "preserved" as outlined in the HS.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 988016?
A 10 kg shipment of canned sardines in oil, declared at a customs value of $50 USD, would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($50 USD × 10% = $5.00), plus a specific duty of $0.50 per kilogram ($0.50/kg × 10 kg = $5.00), resulting in a total duty of $10.00. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 988016?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 988016, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or other appropriate documentation is required. For goods originating in countries benefiting from the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP), preferential rates, often "Free," may apply, requiring a GSP Form A or an approved exporter declaration.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What does HS code 988016 generally cover, and what are the implications of being classified in 'Chapter 16'?
HS code 988016 is a special or temporary statistical or administrative code used in some customs jurisdictions, notably the United States. It is not a standard Harmonized System code for tariff purposes. When an item is classified under 988016, it typically means the actual tariff classification falls within Chapter 16 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), which covers 'Preparations of meat, of fish, or of crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates'. This designation often indicates a need for further specific classification within Chapter 16 based on the precise nature of the product. Importers and brokers must consult the HTSUS to determine the correct 10-digit tariff number within Chapter 16 for accurate duty assessment.
What are the typical duty rates for products classified under HS code 988016 (meaning, within HTSUS Chapter 16)?
Since HS 988016 is a statistical code pointing to HTSUS Chapter 16, the duty rates are not uniform. They depend on the specific 10-digit classification within Chapter 16. For example, a common MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rate for prepared or preserved meats might range from 0% to 15% ad valorem, while certain fish preparations could have different rates. To find the exact duty rate, one must identify the precise 10-digit HTSUS code for the imported product. You can find this information on the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) website.
How is the duty calculated for a product falling under HTSUS Chapter 16, as indicated by 988016?
The duty calculation depends on the specific 10-digit HTSUS code and the terms of the assessed duty rate. Most duties in Chapter 16 are ad valorem (based on value). For instance, if a product of prepared meat has an MFN duty rate of 5% ad valorem and its entered value is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Entered Value) × 5% (Duty Rate) = $500 (Duty Amount). Some items may have compound duties (a combination of ad valorem and specific rates per unit), requiring careful attention to the HTSUS text.
Are there preferential duty rates available for products classified under HTSUS Chapter 16, and how do trade agreements affect them?
Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for products classified under HTSUS Chapter 16 if they originate from countries with which the United States has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or other preferential trade programs. For example, goods from countries like Canada or Mexico under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) might receive duty-free treatment or reduced rates, provided they meet the rules of origin. Importers and brokers must verify the specific product's eligibility and ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HTSUS Chapter 16, especially when using a code like 988016?
Beyond the standard commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, imports falling under HTSUS Chapter 16 often require specific documentation to ensure compliance with food safety and import regulations. This may include: a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Prior Notice, potentially a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) permit or inspection certificate depending on the product (e.g., meat, poultry), and a Certificate of Origin if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. Customs brokers should advise importers on the precise documentation needed based on the specific product and its origin.