HS Code Subheading

Mollusc preparations; clams, cockles and arkshells, prepared or preserved

1605.56 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 160556

This category includes clams, cockles, and arkshells that have been prepared or preserved, commonly through canning, freezing, smoking, or pickling. These bivalve molluscs are popular globally, offering versatile ingredients for various dishes, from chowders to pasta. International trade is driven by consumer demand for convenient and flavorful seafood options. Importers often include countries with a strong culinary appreciation for these shellfish or those seeking reliable sources for their foodservice and retail markets. Exporters typically have well-developed aquaculture or wild harvest industries, supported by efficient processing plants. Ensuring product safety, quality, and sustainable sourcing practices are paramount in this segment of the seafood trade, catering to diverse global palates.

Products Under This Code

Canned chopped clams, frozen clam meat, smoked cockles, pickled arkshells, clam chowder base, breaded clam strips, frozen whole cooked clams

Real World Examples

Bumble Bee Chopped Clams, Snow's Clam Chowder, Goya Clams, various Asian brands for canned cockles/arkshells

Common Misclassification

Often confused with fresh or chilled clams, cockles, and arkshells (030760) if the preservation method is not explicit, or with other bivalve preparations like mussels (160553) or oysters (160551) if misidentified.

Products Classified Under 1605.56

Prepared clamsCanned clamsPrepared cockles

Related Codes

1605.10 Crustacean preparations; crab, prepared or preserved 1605.21 Crustacean preparations; shrimps and prawns, prepared or preserved, not in airtight containers 1605.29 Crustacean preparations; shrimps and prawns, prepared or preserved, in airtight containers 1605.30 Crustacean preparations; lobster, prepared or preserved 1605.40 Crustacean preparations; other than crab, shrimps, prawns, and lobsters, prepared or preserved 1605.51 Mollusc preparations; oysters, prepared or preserved 1605.52 Mollusc preparations; scallops, including queen scallops, prepared or preserved 1605.53 Mollusc preparations; mussels, prepared or preserved 1605.54 Mollusc preparations; cuttle fish and squid, prepared or preserved 1605.55 Mollusc preparations; octopus, prepared or preserved

Industry

This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.

Trade Overview

The United States, Spain, and Japan are major importers, while China, Vietnam, and Chile are prominent exporters of prepared clam, cockle, and arkshell products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 160556?

HS code 160556 covers: Mollusc preparations; clams, cockles and arkshells, prepared or preserved. This category includes clams, cockles, and arkshells that have been prepared or preserved, commonly through canning, freezing, smoking, or pickling. These bivalve molluscs are popular globally, offering versatile ingredients for various dishes, from chowders to pasta. International trade is driven by consumer demand for convenient and flavorful seafood options. Importers often include countries with a strong culinary appreciation for these shellfish or those seeking reliable sources for their foodservice and retail markets. Exporters typically have well-developed aquaculture or wild harvest industries, supported by efficient processing plants. Ensuring product safety, quality, and sustainable sourcing practices are paramount in this segment of the seafood trade, catering to diverse global palates.

What products fall under HS code 160556?

Canned chopped clams, frozen clam meat, smoked cockles, pickled arkshells, clam chowder base, breaded clam strips, frozen whole cooked clams

What are common misclassifications for HS code 160556?

Often confused with fresh or chilled clams, cockles, and arkshells (030760) if the preservation method is not explicit, or with other bivalve preparations like mussels (160553) or oysters (160551) if misidentified.

How is HS code 160556 structured?

HS code 160556 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 (56) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.