About HS Code 030612
This HS code specifically addresses the international trade of frozen true lobsters (Homarus spp.), which include the highly sought-after American and European lobsters. These are premium seafood products, celebrated for their rich, sweet flavor and tender meat, making them a cornerstone of fine dining and upscale retail globally. Freezing is the primary method of preservation, crucial for maintaining quality and facilitating international transport from the cold waters where they are harvested. Major importers are countries with high disposable income and a strong demand for luxury seafood, such as the United States, China, and European Union nations. Exporters are predominantly North American and European countries with established lobster fisheries, like Canada and the United States, which have robust supply chains for these valuable crustaceans.
Products Under This Code
Frozen whole American lobster, frozen Canadian lobster tails, frozen European lobster claws, frozen lobster meat, frozen cooked lobster, frozen lobster knuckles.
Real World Examples
Maine Lobster, Canadian Atlantic Lobster, Brittany Lobster, Norwegian Lobster.
Common Misclassification
Often confused with live/fresh/chilled lobsters (030632) or prepared/preserved lobsters (160530) if the 'frozen' and 'not prepared beyond simple cooking/smoking' criteria are not strictly applied.
Products Classified Under 0306.12
Industry
This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.
Trade Overview
The United States, China, and European Union countries are major importers, with Canada and the United States being the dominant exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 030612?
HS code 030612 covers: Crustaceans; frozen, lobsters (Homarus spp.), in shell or not, smoked, cooked or not before or during smoking; in shell, cooked by steaming or by boiling in water. This HS code specifically addresses the international trade of frozen true lobsters (Homarus spp.), which include the highly sought-after American and European lobsters. These are premium seafood products, celebrated for their rich, sweet flavor and tender meat, making them a cornerstone of fine dining and upscale retail globally. Freezing is the primary method of preservation, crucial for maintaining quality and facilitating international transport from the cold waters where they are harvested. Major importers are countries with high disposable income and a strong demand for luxury seafood, such as the United States, China, and European Union nations. Exporters are predominantly North American and European countries with established lobster fisheries, like Canada and the United States, which have robust supply chains for these valuable crustaceans.
What products fall under HS code 030612?
Frozen whole American lobster, frozen Canadian lobster tails, frozen European lobster claws, frozen lobster meat, frozen cooked lobster, frozen lobster knuckles.
What are common misclassifications for HS code 030612?
Often confused with live/fresh/chilled lobsters (030632) or prepared/preserved lobsters (160530) if the 'frozen' and 'not prepared beyond simple cooking/smoking' criteria are not strictly applied.
How is HS code 030612 structured?
HS code 030612 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (03) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (06) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (12) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.