About HS Code 030631
This HS code specifically covers live, fresh, or chilled rock lobsters and other sea crawfish, encompassing species from genera like Palinurus, Panulirus, and Jasus. These are highly prized luxury seafood items, often traded live to maintain peak freshness and command premium prices in high-end restaurants and gourmet markets globally. The trade is characterized by stringent logistics, requiring rapid transport and specialized handling to ensure the crustaceans arrive alive and in optimal condition. Major importers are typically affluent markets with strong demand for live seafood, such as China, Hong Kong, and parts of Europe. Exporters are countries with significant rock lobster fisheries, including Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and various Caribbean nations. Sustainability of wild-caught stocks and strict import/export regulations are crucial for this high-value trade.
Products Under This Code
Live Australian rock lobster, fresh Caribbean spiny lobster, chilled New Zealand crayfish, live European spiny lobster, fresh South African rock lobster, live ornate spiny lobster
Real World Examples
Western Rock Lobster Council (Australia), Clearwater Seafoods, various high-end seafood distributors, Whole Foods Market, Luke's Lobster
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with 030632 (live, fresh, or chilled true lobsters, Homarus spp.) due to similar appearance, but the species are distinct. Also, 030611 covers frozen rock lobsters.
Products Classified Under 0306.31
Industry
This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.
Trade Overview
Top importers include China, Hong Kong, and France; major exporters are Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 030631?
HS code 030631 covers: Crustaceans; live, fresh or chilled, rock lobsters and other sea crawfish (Palinurus spp., Panulirus spp., Jasus spp.), in shell or not. This HS code specifically covers live, fresh, or chilled rock lobsters and other sea crawfish, encompassing species from genera like Palinurus, Panulirus, and Jasus. These are highly prized luxury seafood items, often traded live to maintain peak freshness and command premium prices in high-end restaurants and gourmet markets globally. The trade is characterized by stringent logistics, requiring rapid transport and specialized handling to ensure the crustaceans arrive alive and in optimal condition. Major importers are typically affluent markets with strong demand for live seafood, such as China, Hong Kong, and parts of Europe. Exporters are countries with significant rock lobster fisheries, including Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and various Caribbean nations. Sustainability of wild-caught stocks and strict import/export regulations are crucial for this high-value trade.
What products fall under HS code 030631?
Live Australian rock lobster, fresh Caribbean spiny lobster, chilled New Zealand crayfish, live European spiny lobster, fresh South African rock lobster, live ornate spiny lobster
What are common misclassifications for HS code 030631?
Can be confused with 030632 (live, fresh, or chilled true lobsters, Homarus spp.) due to similar appearance, but the species are distinct. Also, 030611 covers frozen rock lobsters.
How is HS code 030631 structured?
HS code 030631 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 (31) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.