About HS Code 030485
This HS code pertains to frozen fillets of toothfish (Dissostichus spp.), commonly known as Patagonian toothfish or Chilean sea bass. This deep-water species commands a high market price due to its rich, buttery flavor and flaky white flesh, making it a luxury item in global seafood markets. The trade is highly regulated due to historical issues with illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, with strict quotas and monitoring by organizations like CCAMLR. Importers, primarily high-income countries such as the United States, Japan, and various European nations, seek certified sustainable sources. Exporters are typically countries with access to toothfish fisheries and robust regulatory frameworks, including Chile, Argentina, Australia, and France (often as a re-exporter). The product is usually traded as skin-on or skin-off fillets and portions.
Products Under This Code
Frozen Patagonian toothfish fillets, frozen Chilean sea bass portions, skin-on toothfish fillets, skin-off toothfish fillets, toothfish steaks, frozen Antarctic toothfish fillets
Real World Examples
Austral Fisheries (Glacier 51 Toothfish), Pescanova (Chilean Sea Bass), Santa Monica Seafood (Patagonian Toothfish), Mowi (Chilean Sea Bass Portions)
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with 030492 (frozen toothfish meat, excluding fillets) if not clearly filleted, or 030489 if generically labeled as "other frozen fish fillets" without specific species identification.
Products Classified Under 0304.85
Industry
This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.
Trade Overview
The United States, Japan, and China are significant importers, while Chile, Argentina, and Australia are primary exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 030485?
HS code 030485 covers: Fish fillets; frozen, toothfish (Dissostichus spp.). This HS code pertains to frozen fillets of toothfish (Dissostichus spp.), commonly known as Patagonian toothfish or Chilean sea bass. This deep-water species commands a high market price due to its rich, buttery flavor and flaky white flesh, making it a luxury item in global seafood markets. The trade is highly regulated due to historical issues with illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, with strict quotas and monitoring by organizations like CCAMLR. Importers, primarily high-income countries such as the United States, Japan, and various European nations, seek certified sustainable sources. Exporters are typically countries with access to toothfish fisheries and robust regulatory frameworks, including Chile, Argentina, Australia, and France (often as a re-exporter). The product is usually traded as skin-on or skin-off fillets and portions.
What products fall under HS code 030485?
Frozen Patagonian toothfish fillets, frozen Chilean sea bass portions, skin-on toothfish fillets, skin-off toothfish fillets, toothfish steaks, frozen Antarctic toothfish fillets
What are common misclassifications for HS code 030485?
Can be confused with 030492 (frozen toothfish meat, excluding fillets) if not clearly filleted, or 030489 if generically labeled as "other frozen fish fillets" without specific species identification.
How is HS code 030485 structured?
HS code 030485 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 (85) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.