HS Code Subheading

Mollusc preparations; octopus, prepared or preserved

1605.55 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 160555

This HS code covers octopus that has been prepared or preserved, typically through freezing, canning, drying, or marinating. Octopus is a highly sought-after delicacy in many parts of the world, especially in Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin American cuisines, prized for its distinct texture and rich flavor. International trade is robust, with demand coming from countries that value its unique culinary applications. Importers often have strong culinary traditions for octopus or a thriving restaurant sector. Exporters usually possess significant fishing capabilities and specialized processing facilities to handle and prepare octopus effectively. Critical factors in this trade include ensuring sustainable sourcing, maintaining product quality during processing, and adhering to strict food safety and hygiene standards to meet global market demands.

Products Under This Code

Frozen cooked octopus, canned octopus in olive oil, marinated baby octopus, dried octopus, grilled octopus (frozen), octopus salad, octopus carpaccio

Real World Examples

Goya Octopus, Vigo Octopus, various Spanish and Portuguese brands for canned octopus, Asian brands for dried/frozen octopus

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with fresh or chilled octopus (030751) if the preservation method is not clearly stated, or with cuttlefish and squid preparations (160554) due to their shared cephalopod classification.

Products Classified Under 1605.55

Industry

This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.

Trade Overview

Spain, Italy, and Japan are top importers, while Morocco, Mauritania, and Portugal are significant exporters of prepared octopus products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 160555?

HS code 160555 covers: Mollusc preparations; octopus, prepared or preserved. This HS code covers octopus that has been prepared or preserved, typically through freezing, canning, drying, or marinating. Octopus is a highly sought-after delicacy in many parts of the world, especially in Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin American cuisines, prized for its distinct texture and rich flavor. International trade is robust, with demand coming from countries that value its unique culinary applications. Importers often have strong culinary traditions for octopus or a thriving restaurant sector. Exporters usually possess significant fishing capabilities and specialized processing facilities to handle and prepare octopus effectively. Critical factors in this trade include ensuring sustainable sourcing, maintaining product quality during processing, and adhering to strict food safety and hygiene standards to meet global market demands.

What products fall under HS code 160555?

Frozen cooked octopus, canned octopus in olive oil, marinated baby octopus, dried octopus, grilled octopus (frozen), octopus salad, octopus carpaccio

What are common misclassifications for HS code 160555?

Can be confused with fresh or chilled octopus (030751) if the preservation method is not clearly stated, or with cuttlefish and squid preparations (160554) due to their shared cephalopod classification.

How is HS code 160555 structured?

HS code 160555 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 (55) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.