HS Code Subheading

Fish preparations; sardines, sardinella and brisling or sprats, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced)

1604.13 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 160413

This HS code specifically covers prepared or preserved sardines, sardinella, and brisling or sprats, whole or in pieces, but not minced. These small, oily fish are highly popular globally, primarily traded in canned form, often packed in oil, water, or various sauces. Their convenience, long shelf life, and nutritional benefits (rich in omega-3s) drive significant international demand. Major exporters are typically coastal nations with abundant fisheries and established canning industries, while importers span all continents, seeking affordable and healthy protein sources. Key trade considerations include sustainable fishing practices, traceability, and adherence to food safety and labeling standards. The market offers a wide variety of preparations, catering to diverse tastes and culinary uses, from simple snacks to ingredients in more complex dishes.

Products Under This Code

Canned sardines in oil, sardines in tomato sauce, smoked sprats, sardinella fillets (prepared), brisling in olive oil, spiced sprats, sardines in brine

Real World Examples

King Oscar Sardines, Brunswick Sardines, Chicken of the Sea Sardines, Season Brand Sardines, Riga Gold Smoked Sprats

Common Misclassification

Often confused with 160412 (herring) due to similar canned presentations, or 030489 (fresh/chilled small fish fillets) if not clearly preserved.

Products Classified Under 1604.13

Canned sardinesCanned spratsPreserved sardinella

Related Codes

1604.11 Fish preparations; salmon, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced) 1604.12 Fish preparations; herrings, 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

Major importers include the USA, EU, and Japan, with top exporters being Morocco, Portugal, and Spain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 160413?

HS code 160413 covers: Fish preparations; sardines, sardinella and brisling or sprats, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced). This HS code specifically covers prepared or preserved sardines, sardinella, and brisling or sprats, whole or in pieces, but not minced. These small, oily fish are highly popular globally, primarily traded in canned form, often packed in oil, water, or various sauces. Their convenience, long shelf life, and nutritional benefits (rich in omega-3s) drive significant international demand. Major exporters are typically coastal nations with abundant fisheries and established canning industries, while importers span all continents, seeking affordable and healthy protein sources. Key trade considerations include sustainable fishing practices, traceability, and adherence to food safety and labeling standards. The market offers a wide variety of preparations, catering to diverse tastes and culinary uses, from simple snacks to ingredients in more complex dishes.

What products fall under HS code 160413?

Canned sardines in oil, sardines in tomato sauce, smoked sprats, sardinella fillets (prepared), brisling in olive oil, spiced sprats, sardines in brine

What are common misclassifications for HS code 160413?

Often confused with 160412 (herring) due to similar canned presentations, or 030489 (fresh/chilled small fish fillets) if not clearly preserved.

How is HS code 160413 structured?

HS code 160413 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 (13) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.