About HS Code 030431
This code specifically identifies fresh or chilled fillets of tilapias (Oreochromis spp.), a cornerstone of the global aquaculture industry. Tilapia fillets are highly sought after for their mild flavor, versatility, and affordability, making them a staple in both retail and foodservice sectors worldwide. The trade is dominated by large-scale aquaculture operations, primarily in Asia, which supply a consistent volume of product to major consumer markets. Importers include supermarket chains, restaurant suppliers, and food processors looking for a reliable and cost-effective protein source. Key aspects of this trade involve maintaining the cold chain to ensure freshness, adherence to food safety standards, and increasingly, certifications for sustainable aquaculture practices, as consumers become more environmentally conscious.
Products Under This Code
Fresh tilapia fillets, chilled tilapia fillets, skin-on tilapia fillets, skinless tilapia fillets, boneless tilapia fillets, individually quick frozen (IQF) tilapia fillets (if chilled before freezing), bulk tilapia fillets
Real World Examples
Regal Springs Tilapia, AquaChile Tilapia, various supermarket brands (e.g., Whole Foods, Walmart), foodservice distributors
Common Misclassification
This code is often confused with frozen tilapia fillets (0304.61) or whole fresh or chilled tilapia (0302.71). The critical differentiators are 'fresh or chilled' and 'fillets'.
Products Classified Under 0304.31
Industry
This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.
Trade Overview
China and Southeast Asian nations are dominant exporters, with the USA and EU countries being major importers due to high consumer demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 030431?
HS code 030431 covers: Fish fillets; fresh or chilled, tilapias (Oreochromis spp.). This code specifically identifies fresh or chilled fillets of tilapias (Oreochromis spp.), a cornerstone of the global aquaculture industry. Tilapia fillets are highly sought after for their mild flavor, versatility, and affordability, making them a staple in both retail and foodservice sectors worldwide. The trade is dominated by large-scale aquaculture operations, primarily in Asia, which supply a consistent volume of product to major consumer markets. Importers include supermarket chains, restaurant suppliers, and food processors looking for a reliable and cost-effective protein source. Key aspects of this trade involve maintaining the cold chain to ensure freshness, adherence to food safety standards, and increasingly, certifications for sustainable aquaculture practices, as consumers become more environmentally conscious.
What products fall under HS code 030431?
Fresh tilapia fillets, chilled tilapia fillets, skin-on tilapia fillets, skinless tilapia fillets, boneless tilapia fillets, individually quick frozen (IQF) tilapia fillets (if chilled before freezing), bulk tilapia fillets
What are common misclassifications for HS code 030431?
This code is often confused with frozen tilapia fillets (0304.61) or whole fresh or chilled tilapia (0302.71). The critical differentiators are 'fresh or chilled' and 'fillets'.
How is HS code 030431 structured?
HS code 030431 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (03) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (31) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.