HS Code Subheading

Fish; live, ornamental, other than freshwater

0301.19 Subheading
Section I — live animals; animal products

About HS Code 030119

This HS code covers live ornamental fish that are not freshwater species, primarily referring to marine (saltwater) and brackish water fish kept for decorative purposes in aquariums. This niche market is driven by the demand for exotic and colorful species for home and public aquariums, including coral reef environments. The trade involves specialized collection from natural habitats, often in tropical regions, or increasingly, through captive breeding programs to reduce environmental impact. Exporters are typically located in countries with access to diverse marine ecosystems, while importers are found globally, particularly in developed nations with a strong aquarium hobbyist culture. Challenges include sustainable sourcing, complex transportation logistics to maintain water quality and temperature, and strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of marine diseases. The high value of many marine species makes this a significant, albeit specialized, segment of live fish trade.

Products Under This Code

Clownfish, Blue Tang, Royal Gramma, Yellow Tang, Mandarin Dragonet, Damselfish, Seahorses, Lionfish

Real World Examples

ORA (Oceanic Reefs Aquacultured), Biota Aquariums, LiveAquaria (online retailer), local marine aquarium stores

Common Misclassification

This code is distinct from 030111 (live ornamental freshwater fish) due to the aquatic environment, and should not be confused with 03019x codes which are for live food fish.

Products Classified Under 0301.19

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

Indonesia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka are key exporters, with the USA and EU countries being major importers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 030119?

HS code 030119 covers: Fish; live, ornamental, other than freshwater. This HS code covers live ornamental fish that are not freshwater species, primarily referring to marine (saltwater) and brackish water fish kept for decorative purposes in aquariums. This niche market is driven by the demand for exotic and colorful species for home and public aquariums, including coral reef environments. The trade involves specialized collection from natural habitats, often in tropical regions, or increasingly, through captive breeding programs to reduce environmental impact. Exporters are typically located in countries with access to diverse marine ecosystems, while importers are found globally, particularly in developed nations with a strong aquarium hobbyist culture. Challenges include sustainable sourcing, complex transportation logistics to maintain water quality and temperature, and strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of marine diseases. The high value of many marine species makes this a significant, albeit specialized, segment of live fish trade.

What products fall under HS code 030119?

Clownfish, Blue Tang, Royal Gramma, Yellow Tang, Mandarin Dragonet, Damselfish, Seahorses, Lionfish

What are common misclassifications for HS code 030119?

This code is distinct from 030111 (live ornamental freshwater fish) due to the aquatic environment, and should not be confused with 03019x codes which are for live food fish.

How is HS code 030119 structured?

HS code 030119 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (03) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (01) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (19) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.