HS Code Subheading

Meat; of horses, asses, mules or hinnies, fresh, chilled or frozen

0205.00 Subheading
Section I — live animals; animal products

About HS Code 020500

This specific code covers meat from equids, including horses, asses, mules, or hinnies, whether fresh, chilled, or frozen. While not as globally widespread as beef or pork, horse meat is a traditional food in certain cultures, particularly in parts of Europe (e.g., Belgium, France, Italy), Central Asia, and Japan. Trade in this commodity is highly specialized, driven by specific culinary traditions and niche markets. Exporters must adhere to stringent veterinary and labeling regulations, as consumer acceptance and legal status vary significantly across regions. Importers typically serve specific ethnic or traditional food sectors, where demand for these unique meats persists, requiring careful handling and certification throughout the supply chain.

Products Under This Code

Fresh horse steaks, frozen horse mince, chilled donkey meat, frozen mule fillets, fresh horse sausages, frozen horse stew meat, frozen horse roasts

Real World Examples

Chevaline (French horse meat), Belgian horse meat products, Italian horse meat specialties

Common Misclassification

Unlikely to be confused with other common meats due to its distinct source, but proper identification is crucial to avoid mislabeling and meet specific import regulations for equids.

Products Classified Under 0205.00

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

Major exporters include Canada, Argentina, and some European countries, with Belgium, France, and Japan being key importers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 020500?

HS code 020500 covers: Meat; of horses, asses, mules or hinnies, fresh, chilled or frozen. This specific code covers meat from equids, including horses, asses, mules, or hinnies, whether fresh, chilled, or frozen. While not as globally widespread as beef or pork, horse meat is a traditional food in certain cultures, particularly in parts of Europe (e.g., Belgium, France, Italy), Central Asia, and Japan. Trade in this commodity is highly specialized, driven by specific culinary traditions and niche markets. Exporters must adhere to stringent veterinary and labeling regulations, as consumer acceptance and legal status vary significantly across regions. Importers typically serve specific ethnic or traditional food sectors, where demand for these unique meats persists, requiring careful handling and certification throughout the supply chain.

What products fall under HS code 020500?

Fresh horse steaks, frozen horse mince, chilled donkey meat, frozen mule fillets, fresh horse sausages, frozen horse stew meat, frozen horse roasts

What are common misclassifications for HS code 020500?

Unlikely to be confused with other common meats due to its distinct source, but proper identification is crucial to avoid mislabeling and meet specific import regulations for equids.

How is HS code 020500 structured?

HS code 020500 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (02) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (05) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.