HS Code Subheading

Fish; frozen, eels (Anguilla spp.), excluding fillets, fish meat of 0304, and edible fish offal of subheadings 0303.91 to 0303.99

0303.26 Subheading
Section I — live animals; animal products

About HS Code 030326

This HS code covers frozen eels of the Anguilla genus, excluding fillets, fish meat, or edible offal. Eels are a highly prized delicacy, especially in East Asian cuisines, driving a substantial international trade. Due to their complex life cycles and migratory patterns, sustainable sourcing and aquaculture play critical roles. Major exporters often include countries with significant wild eel populations or advanced aquaculture facilities, while importers are predominantly nations with high consumer demand for eel products, such as Japan, China, and South Korea. The trade involves various species like European, Japanese, and American eels, requiring strict adherence to cold chain management to preserve quality for culinary applications like 'unagi'.

Products Under This Code

Whole frozen European eel, frozen Japanese eel, frozen American eel, gutted frozen shortfin eel, frozen longfin eel

Real World Examples

AquaFarm Frozen Eels, Oceanic Delights Frozen Eel, Unagiya Frozen Whole Eel

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with fresh eels (0302.72) or eel fillets (0304.82). The crucial difference lies in the 'frozen' state and the 'whole' form, not processed into fillets.

Products Classified Under 0303.26

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

Japan, China, and South Korea are primary importers, while European and North American countries are significant exporters of frozen eels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 030326?

HS code 030326 covers: Fish; frozen, eels (Anguilla spp.), excluding fillets, fish meat of 0304, and edible fish offal of subheadings 0303.91 to 0303.99. This HS code covers frozen eels of the Anguilla genus, excluding fillets, fish meat, or edible offal. Eels are a highly prized delicacy, especially in East Asian cuisines, driving a substantial international trade. Due to their complex life cycles and migratory patterns, sustainable sourcing and aquaculture play critical roles. Major exporters often include countries with significant wild eel populations or advanced aquaculture facilities, while importers are predominantly nations with high consumer demand for eel products, such as Japan, China, and South Korea. The trade involves various species like European, Japanese, and American eels, requiring strict adherence to cold chain management to preserve quality for culinary applications like 'unagi'.

What products fall under HS code 030326?

Whole frozen European eel, frozen Japanese eel, frozen American eel, gutted frozen shortfin eel, frozen longfin eel

What are common misclassifications for HS code 030326?

This code is frequently confused with fresh eels (0302.72) or eel fillets (0304.82). The crucial difference lies in the 'frozen' state and the 'whole' form, not processed into fillets.

How is HS code 030326 structured?

HS code 030326 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (03) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (03) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (26) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.