HS Code Subheading

Mollusc preparations; oysters, prepared or preserved

1605.51 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 160551

This HS code covers oysters that have been prepared or preserved, extending their shelf life and offering convenience to consumers and the foodservice industry. This includes products such as canned smoked oysters, frozen shucked oysters, or pickled oysters. International trade in prepared oysters is driven by consumer demand for gourmet seafood and the need for stable, year-round supply chains. Major importers are often countries with strong culinary traditions involving oysters or those with high disposable incomes, such as the United States and various European nations. Exporters typically have significant aquaculture industries or wild oyster fisheries, like China and South Korea. Quality control, traceability, and adherence to stringent food safety standards are paramount in this global trade.

Products Under This Code

Canned smoked oysters, frozen shucked oysters, pickled oysters, oyster stew, oyster pate, breaded frozen oysters, oyster Rockefeller kits

Real World Examples

Bumble Bee Smoked Oysters, Crown Prince Smoked Oysters, Taylor Shellfish Farms (processed products), various Asian brands for canned oysters

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with fresh or chilled oysters (030711) if the 'prepared' aspect is not clearly defined, or with other mollusc preparations (e.g., 160556 for clams) if misidentified.

Products Classified Under 1605.51

Industry

This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.

Trade Overview

Key importers include the United States and various European countries, with China and South Korea being significant exporters of prepared oyster products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 160551?

HS code 160551 covers: Mollusc preparations; oysters, prepared or preserved. This HS code covers oysters that have been prepared or preserved, extending their shelf life and offering convenience to consumers and the foodservice industry. This includes products such as canned smoked oysters, frozen shucked oysters, or pickled oysters. International trade in prepared oysters is driven by consumer demand for gourmet seafood and the need for stable, year-round supply chains. Major importers are often countries with strong culinary traditions involving oysters or those with high disposable incomes, such as the United States and various European nations. Exporters typically have significant aquaculture industries or wild oyster fisheries, like China and South Korea. Quality control, traceability, and adherence to stringent food safety standards are paramount in this global trade.

What products fall under HS code 160551?

Canned smoked oysters, frozen shucked oysters, pickled oysters, oyster stew, oyster pate, breaded frozen oysters, oyster Rockefeller kits

What are common misclassifications for HS code 160551?

Can be confused with fresh or chilled oysters (030711) if the 'prepared' aspect is not clearly defined, or with other mollusc preparations (e.g., 160556 for clams) if misidentified.

How is HS code 160551 structured?

HS code 160551 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (16) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (05) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (51) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.