About HS Code 030822
This category covers sea urchins that have been frozen, a high-value aquatic invertebrate primarily traded for their roe, known as 'uni.' The international trade in frozen sea urchins caters to a luxury seafood market, with strong demand from fine dining restaurants and gourmet consumers, particularly in East Asia. Countries with abundant sea urchin populations and advanced freezing capabilities, such as Chile, the United States, and Canada, are key exporters. Importers prioritize quality, freshness (even after freezing), and sustainable sourcing practices. The delicate nature of sea urchin roe necessitates careful handling, rapid freezing techniques, and efficient cold chain logistics to preserve its texture and flavor during transit, making it a premium commodity in global seafood markets.
Products Under This Code
Frozen sea urchin roe (uni), frozen whole sea urchins, frozen sea urchin gonads, frozen sea urchin meat, frozen uni blocks.
Real World Examples
Santa Barbara Uni (frozen variants), Hokkaido Uni (frozen variants), Maine Uni (frozen), Chilean Uni (frozen).
Common Misclassification
This code is specifically for *frozen* sea urchins; fresh or chilled sea urchins would fall under 030821. Other frozen aquatic invertebrates, not sea urchins, are classified under 030890.
Products Classified Under 0308.22
Industry
This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.
Trade Overview
Japan is the largest importer of frozen sea urchins, with Chile, the US, and Canada being significant exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 030822?
HS code 030822 covers: Aquatic invertebrates; sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus spp., Paracentrotus lividus, Loxechinus albus, Echinus esculentus), frozen. This category covers sea urchins that have been frozen, a high-value aquatic invertebrate primarily traded for their roe, known as 'uni.' The international trade in frozen sea urchins caters to a luxury seafood market, with strong demand from fine dining restaurants and gourmet consumers, particularly in East Asia. Countries with abundant sea urchin populations and advanced freezing capabilities, such as Chile, the United States, and Canada, are key exporters. Importers prioritize quality, freshness (even after freezing), and sustainable sourcing practices. The delicate nature of sea urchin roe necessitates careful handling, rapid freezing techniques, and efficient cold chain logistics to preserve its texture and flavor during transit, making it a premium commodity in global seafood markets.
What products fall under HS code 030822?
Frozen sea urchin roe (uni), frozen whole sea urchins, frozen sea urchin gonads, frozen sea urchin meat, frozen uni blocks.
What are common misclassifications for HS code 030822?
This code is specifically for *frozen* sea urchins; fresh or chilled sea urchins would fall under 030821. Other frozen aquatic invertebrates, not sea urchins, are classified under 030890.
How is HS code 030822 structured?
HS code 030822 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 (22) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.