HS Code Subheading

Aquatic invertebrates; sea cucumbers, prepared or preserved

1605.61 Subheading
Section IV — Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes

About HS Code 160561

This category covers sea cucumbers that have been prepared or preserved for human consumption, a highly valued delicacy, particularly in East Asian markets. The trade involves various forms, including dried, frozen, canned, or otherwise processed sea cucumbers. Importers are predominantly countries with a strong demand for luxury seafood and traditional culinary ingredients, such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea. Exporters are typically nations with significant sea cucumber fisheries and established processing industries, including Indonesia, the Philippines, Australia, and various Pacific Island countries. Key aspects of this trade include the high market value of the product, concerns regarding sustainable harvesting practices, adherence to international regulations like CITES for certain species, and the specialized processing techniques, especially drying, which is crucial for preservation and market appeal. The market is often influenced by cultural significance and perceived health benefits.

Products Under This Code

Dried sea cucumber, frozen sea cucumber, canned sea cucumber, sea cucumber extract, instant sea cucumber soup, braised sea cucumber

Real World Examples

Hokkaido Dried Sea Cucumber, Pacific Sea Cucumber (various forms), Golden Phoenix Canned Sea Cucumber, Dongwon F&B (prepared sea cucumber products)

Common Misclassification

Often confused with fresh sea cucumbers (0308.11) or other prepared aquatic invertebrates (1605.69) if not specifically sea cucumber.

Products Classified Under 1605.61

Prepared sea cucumbersDried sea cucumbers

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

China and Hong Kong are dominant importers, with Indonesia, Philippines, and Australia being key exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 160561?

HS code 160561 covers: Aquatic invertebrates; sea cucumbers, prepared or preserved. This category covers sea cucumbers that have been prepared or preserved for human consumption, a highly valued delicacy, particularly in East Asian markets. The trade involves various forms, including dried, frozen, canned, or otherwise processed sea cucumbers. Importers are predominantly countries with a strong demand for luxury seafood and traditional culinary ingredients, such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea. Exporters are typically nations with significant sea cucumber fisheries and established processing industries, including Indonesia, the Philippines, Australia, and various Pacific Island countries. Key aspects of this trade include the high market value of the product, concerns regarding sustainable harvesting practices, adherence to international regulations like CITES for certain species, and the specialized processing techniques, especially drying, which is crucial for preservation and market appeal. The market is often influenced by cultural significance and perceived health benefits.

What products fall under HS code 160561?

Dried sea cucumber, frozen sea cucumber, canned sea cucumber, sea cucumber extract, instant sea cucumber soup, braised sea cucumber

What are common misclassifications for HS code 160561?

Often confused with fresh sea cucumbers (0308.11) or other prepared aquatic invertebrates (1605.69) if not specifically sea cucumber.

How is HS code 160561 structured?

HS code 160561 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 (61) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.