HS Code Subheading

Fish preparations; herrings, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced)

1604.12 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 160412

This HS code covers prepared or preserved herrings, whole or in pieces, excluding minced products. Herring is a staple in many European diets and is traded globally in various forms, including pickled, smoked (kippers), and canned. Its affordability, nutritional value, and versatility make it a significant item in the seafood trade. Exporters are typically countries with strong herring fisheries and established processing traditions, while importers often have a cultural affinity for herring products or seek cost-effective protein sources. Key trade aspects include adherence to fishing quotas, sustainable sourcing practices, and food safety regulations. The market is characterized by both traditional preparations and modern convenience products, reflecting a rich culinary heritage and evolving consumer demands for ready-to-eat seafood options.

Products Under This Code

Pickled herring fillets, smoked herring (kippers), canned herring in oil, herring roe (prepared), herring in tomato sauce, matjes herring, herring in cream sauce

Real World Examples

Roland Pickled Herring, Brunswick Sardines (sometimes herring), King Oscar Kipper Snacks, Vita Herring Fillets, various Scandinavian brands of pickled herring

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with 030489 (fresh/chilled herring fillets) if not preserved, or 160413 (sardines) due to similar appearance in some canned forms.

Products Classified Under 1604.12

Canned herringPickled herring

Related Codes

1604.11 Fish preparations; salmon, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced) 1604.13 Fish preparations; sardines, sardinella and brisling or sprats, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced) 1604.14 Fish preparations; tunas, skipjack tuna and bonito (Sarda spp.), prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced) 1604.15 Fish preparations; mackerel, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced) 1604.16 Fish preparations; anchovies, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced) 1604.17 Fish preparations; eels, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced) 1604.18 Fish preparations; shark fins, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced) 1604.19 Fish preparations; fish prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced), n.e.c. in heading no. 1604 1604.20 Fish preparations; fish minced or in forms n.e.c. in heading no. 1604, prepared or preserved 1604.31 Fish preparations; caviar

Industry

This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.

Trade Overview

European countries, especially Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands, are major importers, with Norway, Iceland, and Denmark being key exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 160412?

HS code 160412 covers: Fish preparations; herrings, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced). This HS code covers prepared or preserved herrings, whole or in pieces, excluding minced products. Herring is a staple in many European diets and is traded globally in various forms, including pickled, smoked (kippers), and canned. Its affordability, nutritional value, and versatility make it a significant item in the seafood trade. Exporters are typically countries with strong herring fisheries and established processing traditions, while importers often have a cultural affinity for herring products or seek cost-effective protein sources. Key trade aspects include adherence to fishing quotas, sustainable sourcing practices, and food safety regulations. The market is characterized by both traditional preparations and modern convenience products, reflecting a rich culinary heritage and evolving consumer demands for ready-to-eat seafood options.

What products fall under HS code 160412?

Pickled herring fillets, smoked herring (kippers), canned herring in oil, herring roe (prepared), herring in tomato sauce, matjes herring, herring in cream sauce

What are common misclassifications for HS code 160412?

Can be confused with 030489 (fresh/chilled herring fillets) if not preserved, or 160413 (sardines) due to similar appearance in some canned forms.

How is HS code 160412 structured?

HS code 160412 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (16) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (12) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.