HS Code Subheading

Fish fillets; fresh or chilled, toothfish (Dissostichus spp.)

0304.46 Subheading
Section I — live animals; animal products

About HS Code 030446

This HS code specifically covers fresh or chilled fillets of toothfish (Dissostichus spp.), which primarily includes Patagonian toothfish and Antarctic toothfish, often marketed under the trade name 'Chilean Sea Bass.' This is an exceptionally high-value product in the global seafood trade, celebrated for its rich, buttery flavor and firm, flaky white flesh. It is a staple in high-end restaurants and specialty seafood markets in affluent countries. The trade is characterized by stringent regulations due to the deep-water habitat of these species and their vulnerability to illegal fishing. Traceability and compliance with international conservation measures, such as those from CCAMLR (Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources), are paramount. Importers are typically luxury food distributors and gourmet retailers in North America, Japan, and Europe. Exporters are countries with legal, regulated toothfish fisheries, primarily in the Southern Ocean. Maintaining the cold chain is crucial for this premium, delicate product.

Products Under This Code

Patagonian toothfish fillets, Antarctic toothfish fillets, Chilean Sea Bass fillets, Toothfish steaks, Skin-on toothfish fillets

Real World Examples

Certified Sustainable Chilean Sea Bass Fillets, MSC-certified Patagonian Toothfish, Wild Antarctic Toothfish Fillets

Common Misclassification

Often confused with 030486 (frozen toothfish fillets) if the product is frozen, or with 030289 if the toothfish is whole and not filleted.

Products Classified Under 0304.46

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

The USA, Japan, and the EU are primary importers, with Chile, Argentina, and Australia being major legal exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 030446?

HS code 030446 covers: Fish fillets; fresh or chilled, toothfish (Dissostichus spp.). This HS code specifically covers fresh or chilled fillets of toothfish (Dissostichus spp.), which primarily includes Patagonian toothfish and Antarctic toothfish, often marketed under the trade name 'Chilean Sea Bass.' This is an exceptionally high-value product in the global seafood trade, celebrated for its rich, buttery flavor and firm, flaky white flesh. It is a staple in high-end restaurants and specialty seafood markets in affluent countries. The trade is characterized by stringent regulations due to the deep-water habitat of these species and their vulnerability to illegal fishing. Traceability and compliance with international conservation measures, such as those from CCAMLR (Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources), are paramount. Importers are typically luxury food distributors and gourmet retailers in North America, Japan, and Europe. Exporters are countries with legal, regulated toothfish fisheries, primarily in the Southern Ocean. Maintaining the cold chain is crucial for this premium, delicate product.

What products fall under HS code 030446?

Patagonian toothfish fillets, Antarctic toothfish fillets, Chilean Sea Bass fillets, Toothfish steaks, Skin-on toothfish fillets

What are common misclassifications for HS code 030446?

Often confused with 030486 (frozen toothfish fillets) if the product is frozen, or with 030289 if the toothfish is whole and not filleted.

How is HS code 030446 structured?

HS code 030446 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 (46) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.