HS Code Subheading

Aquatic invertebrates; sea cucumbers (Stichopus japonicus, Holothuroidea), live, fresh or chilled

0308.11 Subheading
Section I — live animals; animal products

About HS Code 030811

This HS code specifically covers live, fresh, or chilled sea cucumbers, particularly the highly prized Stichopus japonicus species and other Holothuroidea. These marine invertebrates are considered a delicacy, especially in East Asian cuisine and traditional medicine, leading to significant international trade. The demand for live or fresh forms indicates a market willing to pay a premium for quality and freshness, requiring sophisticated logistics for rapid transport and temperature control to maintain their delicate state. This trade often involves specialized air freight and cold chain management. Importers are predominantly East Asian countries such as China, Hong Kong, and Japan, where sea cucumbers are a culinary staple and a symbol of luxury. Exporters are nations with suitable marine environments and sustainable harvesting or aquaculture practices, including Australia, Indonesia, and various Pacific Island nations, which supply these high-value products.

Products Under This Code

Live sea cucumber (Stichopus japonicus), fresh sandfish sea cucumber, chilled curryfish sea cucumber, live prickly redfish, fresh white teatfish, chilled black teatfish.

Real World Examples

Japanese Sea Cucumber (Namako), California Sea Cucumber, Australian Sandfish, Chinese Stichopus japonicus.

Common Misclassification

This code is for live, fresh, or chilled sea cucumbers; misclassification can occur with 030812 (frozen sea cucumbers) or 030819 (dried, salted, etc. sea cucumbers) if the preservation state is not clearly defined.

Products Classified Under 0308.11

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

China, Hong Kong, and Japan are the primary importers, with Australia, Indonesia, and various Pacific Island nations being significant exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 030811?

HS code 030811 covers: Aquatic invertebrates; sea cucumbers (Stichopus japonicus, Holothuroidea), live, fresh or chilled. This HS code specifically covers live, fresh, or chilled sea cucumbers, particularly the highly prized Stichopus japonicus species and other Holothuroidea. These marine invertebrates are considered a delicacy, especially in East Asian cuisine and traditional medicine, leading to significant international trade. The demand for live or fresh forms indicates a market willing to pay a premium for quality and freshness, requiring sophisticated logistics for rapid transport and temperature control to maintain their delicate state. This trade often involves specialized air freight and cold chain management. Importers are predominantly East Asian countries such as China, Hong Kong, and Japan, where sea cucumbers are a culinary staple and a symbol of luxury. Exporters are nations with suitable marine environments and sustainable harvesting or aquaculture practices, including Australia, Indonesia, and various Pacific Island nations, which supply these high-value products.

What products fall under HS code 030811?

Live sea cucumber (Stichopus japonicus), fresh sandfish sea cucumber, chilled curryfish sea cucumber, live prickly redfish, fresh white teatfish, chilled black teatfish.

What are common misclassifications for HS code 030811?

This code is for live, fresh, or chilled sea cucumbers; misclassification can occur with 030812 (frozen sea cucumbers) or 030819 (dried, salted, etc. sea cucumbers) if the preservation state is not clearly defined.

How is HS code 030811 structured?

HS code 030811 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (03) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (08) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (11) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.