HS Code Subheading

Animal products; coral and similar materials, shells of molluscs, crustaceans, echinoderms, cuttle-bone, unworked or simply prepared but not cut to shape, powder and waste thereof

0508.00 Subheading
Section I — live animals; animal products

About HS Code 050800

This HS code covers marine-derived materials such as coral and similar materials, shells of molluscs, crustaceans, echinoderms, and cuttle-bone, in their unworked or simply prepared forms (not cut to shape), including powder and waste. These products are traded for diverse applications, including decorative items, jewelry making, calcium supplements, pet products, and traditional crafts. Importers include jewelry manufacturers, craft suppliers, and pharmaceutical companies. Exporters are typically coastal nations with access to these marine resources. Conservation concerns, particularly for coral and certain shell species, mean that CITES regulations and national environmental laws heavily impact trade, requiring careful documentation and permits to ensure sustainable and legal sourcing.

Products Under This Code

Red coral (raw), mother-of-pearl shells, abalone shells, cuttle-bone, conch shells, sea urchin shells, shell powder, clam shells

Real World Examples

Coral jewelry (raw material), pet bird cuttle-bone, mother-of-pearl inlays in furniture, shell craft supplies, calcium supplements from shells

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with 7101-7103 (pearls, precious stones, or worked jewelry) if the items are already cut, polished, or set. This code is specifically for unworked or simply prepared materials.

Products Classified Under 0508.00

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

The Philippines and Indonesia are major exporters of shells, while Italy is known for importing coral for processing, and the USA imports for various craft and pet industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 050800?

HS code 050800 covers: Animal products; coral and similar materials, shells of molluscs, crustaceans, echinoderms, cuttle-bone, unworked or simply prepared but not cut to shape, powder and waste thereof. This HS code covers marine-derived materials such as coral and similar materials, shells of molluscs, crustaceans, echinoderms, and cuttle-bone, in their unworked or simply prepared forms (not cut to shape), including powder and waste. These products are traded for diverse applications, including decorative items, jewelry making, calcium supplements, pet products, and traditional crafts. Importers include jewelry manufacturers, craft suppliers, and pharmaceutical companies. Exporters are typically coastal nations with access to these marine resources. Conservation concerns, particularly for coral and certain shell species, mean that CITES regulations and national environmental laws heavily impact trade, requiring careful documentation and permits to ensure sustainable and legal sourcing.

What products fall under HS code 050800?

Red coral (raw), mother-of-pearl shells, abalone shells, cuttle-bone, conch shells, sea urchin shells, shell powder, clam shells

What are common misclassifications for HS code 050800?

Can be confused with 7101-7103 (pearls, precious stones, or worked jewelry) if the items are already cut, polished, or set. This code is specifically for unworked or simply prepared materials.

How is HS code 050800 structured?

HS code 050800 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (05) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (08) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.