HS Code Subheading

Fish meat, excluding fillets, whether or not minced; frozen, rays and skates (Rajidae)

0304.97 Subheading
Section I — live animals; animal products

About HS Code 030497

This category pertains to frozen fish meat, excluding fillets, whether or not minced, specifically from rays and skates (Rajidae family). These products are traded to satisfy demand in specific culinary markets, predominantly in Europe and parts of Asia, where ray and skate wings are considered a delicacy. Importers are typically countries with a strong tradition of consuming these species, while exporters are nations with coastal fisheries that target rays and skates. The trade is influenced by seasonal availability, fishing quotas, and consumer preferences for the unique texture and flavor of these cartilaginous fish. Sustainability practices are increasingly important due to concerns over ray and skate populations.

Products Under This Code

Frozen skate wings (meat only), ray meat blocks, minced skate portions, frozen ray steaks (bone-in), processed ray meat, skate surimi.

Real World Examples

Skate wings sold in French markets, ray meat in Portuguese cuisine, specific Asian seafood markets, unbranded frozen skate meat.

Common Misclassification

Could be confused with 030479 (frozen fillets of other fish) if the product is a fillet, or 030499 (other frozen minced fish meat n.e.c.) if the species is not clearly identified as Rajidae.

Products Classified Under 0304.97

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

France, Spain, and Portugal are significant importers, with exporters including countries like the UK, Netherlands, and Argentina.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 030497?

HS code 030497 covers: Fish meat, excluding fillets, whether or not minced; frozen, rays and skates (Rajidae). This category pertains to frozen fish meat, excluding fillets, whether or not minced, specifically from rays and skates (Rajidae family). These products are traded to satisfy demand in specific culinary markets, predominantly in Europe and parts of Asia, where ray and skate wings are considered a delicacy. Importers are typically countries with a strong tradition of consuming these species, while exporters are nations with coastal fisheries that target rays and skates. The trade is influenced by seasonal availability, fishing quotas, and consumer preferences for the unique texture and flavor of these cartilaginous fish. Sustainability practices are increasingly important due to concerns over ray and skate populations.

What products fall under HS code 030497?

Frozen skate wings (meat only), ray meat blocks, minced skate portions, frozen ray steaks (bone-in), processed ray meat, skate surimi.

What are common misclassifications for HS code 030497?

Could be confused with 030479 (frozen fillets of other fish) if the product is a fillet, or 030499 (other frozen minced fish meat n.e.c.) if the species is not clearly identified as Rajidae.

How is HS code 030497 structured?

HS code 030497 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 (97) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.