About HS Code 030632
This HS code is dedicated to live, fresh, or chilled true lobsters of the Homarus genus, primarily referring to American (Homarus americanus) and European (Homarus gammarus) lobsters. These are iconic luxury seafood products, highly valued for their delicate flavor and texture, especially when traded live. The international trade in these lobsters is a significant industry, with sophisticated logistics required to transport them alive to markets worldwide, often involving specialized tanks and air freight. Key importers are countries with strong culinary traditions and high disposable incomes, such as the United States, Canada, and various European and Asian nations. Exporters are predominantly countries with robust lobster fisheries, notably Canada and the United States. Sustainability, quota management, and animal welfare during transport are critical considerations in this high-value, perishable trade.
Products Under This Code
Live American lobster, fresh European lobster, chilled Canadian lobster, live Maine lobster, fresh Nova Scotia lobster, live blue lobster
Real World Examples
Clearwater Seafoods, Luke's Lobster, Lobster Place, Boston Lobster Company, Fisherman's Wharf
Common Misclassification
Often confused with 030631 (live, fresh, or chilled rock lobsters/sea crawfish) due to general "lobster" terminology, but Homarus species are distinct. Also, 030612 covers frozen Homarus lobsters.
Products Classified Under 0306.32
Industry
This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.
Trade Overview
Top importers include the United States, Canada, and China; major exporters are Canada and the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 030632?
HS code 030632 covers: Crustaceans; live, fresh or chilled, lobsters (Homarus spp.), whether in shell or not. This HS code is dedicated to live, fresh, or chilled true lobsters of the Homarus genus, primarily referring to American (Homarus americanus) and European (Homarus gammarus) lobsters. These are iconic luxury seafood products, highly valued for their delicate flavor and texture, especially when traded live. The international trade in these lobsters is a significant industry, with sophisticated logistics required to transport them alive to markets worldwide, often involving specialized tanks and air freight. Key importers are countries with strong culinary traditions and high disposable incomes, such as the United States, Canada, and various European and Asian nations. Exporters are predominantly countries with robust lobster fisheries, notably Canada and the United States. Sustainability, quota management, and animal welfare during transport are critical considerations in this high-value, perishable trade.
What products fall under HS code 030632?
Live American lobster, fresh European lobster, chilled Canadian lobster, live Maine lobster, fresh Nova Scotia lobster, live blue lobster
What are common misclassifications for HS code 030632?
Often confused with 030631 (live, fresh, or chilled rock lobsters/sea crawfish) due to general "lobster" terminology, but Homarus species are distinct. Also, 030612 covers frozen Homarus lobsters.
How is HS code 030632 structured?
HS code 030632 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 (32) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.