HS Code Subheading

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

1604.17 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 160417

HS code 160417 encompasses eels that have undergone preparation or preservation, presented as whole fish or in pieces, but not in minced form. This category is particularly significant in East Asian and European markets, where eels are considered a delicacy. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and China are major importers, driven by high consumer demand for dishes such as unagi (grilled eel). European nations, including Germany and the Netherlands, also import prepared eels. Key exporters are often countries with substantial aquaculture operations or wild eel fisheries, such as China, Taiwan, and the Netherlands. The trade involves various forms, from smoked and marinated eels to those prepared in sauces. Sustainability concerns regarding eel populations and strict regulations on international trade, particularly for endangered species, are crucial factors influencing this market. The processing methods ensure extended shelf life and convenience for consumers.

Products Under This Code

Smoked eel fillets, grilled unagi (kabayaki), marinated eel, jellied eels, canned smoked eel, roasted eel pieces, eel in teriyaki sauce

Real World Examples

Kikkoman Unagi Kabayaki, F.W. Schlotterbeck & Co. Smoked Eel, H. van Wijnen Smoked Eel, Eel River Eel, Maruha Nichiro Unagi

Common Misclassification

This code can be confused with fresh or chilled eels (0302.71) or frozen eels (0303.81), which are unprocessed. It should also be distinguished from minced fish preparations (1604.20) if the eel is finely ground.

Products Classified Under 1604.17

Industry

This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.

Trade Overview

Japan, South Korea, and Germany are leading importers, while China, Taiwan, and the Netherlands are key exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 160417?

HS code 160417 covers: Fish preparations; eels, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced). HS code 160417 encompasses eels that have undergone preparation or preservation, presented as whole fish or in pieces, but not in minced form. This category is particularly significant in East Asian and European markets, where eels are considered a delicacy. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and China are major importers, driven by high consumer demand for dishes such as unagi (grilled eel). European nations, including Germany and the Netherlands, also import prepared eels. Key exporters are often countries with substantial aquaculture operations or wild eel fisheries, such as China, Taiwan, and the Netherlands. The trade involves various forms, from smoked and marinated eels to those prepared in sauces. Sustainability concerns regarding eel populations and strict regulations on international trade, particularly for endangered species, are crucial factors influencing this market. The processing methods ensure extended shelf life and convenience for consumers.

What products fall under HS code 160417?

Smoked eel fillets, grilled unagi (kabayaki), marinated eel, jellied eels, canned smoked eel, roasted eel pieces, eel in teriyaki sauce

What are common misclassifications for HS code 160417?

This code can be confused with fresh or chilled eels (0302.71) or frozen eels (0303.81), which are unprocessed. It should also be distinguished from minced fish preparations (1604.20) if the eel is finely ground.

How is HS code 160417 structured?

HS code 160417 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 (17) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.