HS Code for Animal bile
Animal bile is classified under HS code 0510.00 because it is a primary animal product specifically intended for pharmaceutical purposes. This heading covers animal secretions and organs that have not been further processed beyond basic preservation methods like drying, freezing, or chilling. The classification is determined by the intended use (pharmaceutical) and the state of the product. If the bile is refined into specific chemical components or prepared as a finished medicament, it would move to Chapter 29 or 30. However, raw or provisionally preserved bile remains in Chapter 5. This includes bile from various animals such as cattle, pigs, or poultry, provided it is collected for its medicinal properties. The Harmonized System places these items here to distinguish them from edible offal or general animal waste. The inclusion of "dried or not" in the description ensures that even dehydrated bile remains in this category, provided it hasn't been chemically altered or extracted into a concentrated form. The trade of these products is highly regulated due to their biological nature and their role as precursors in the pharmaceutical industry.
Products Included
- Dried ox bile
- Fresh hog bile
- Frozen bovine bile
- Bile glands for pharmaceutical extraction
- Provisionally preserved animal secretions
Common Misclassification
Animal bile is frequently misclassified under HS code 0511.99, which is a general category for animal products not elsewhere specified. However, because 0510.00 specifically mentions bile for pharmaceutical purposes, it takes precedence. Another common error is using HS code 3001.90. While 3001.90 covers animal extracts for therapeutic use, it is reserved for substances that have undergone significant preparation or extraction. Raw bile, even if dried, stays in 0510.00. Additionally, if the bile is processed into a specific bile acid like deoxycholic acid, it must be classified in Chapter 29, specifically 2918.19, as a chemically defined organic acid.
FAQ
What is the HS code for animal bile?
The HS code for animal bile, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried, is 0510.00, provided it is intended for pharmaceutical use.
Does this code include bile from fish?
No, HS code 0510.00 generally excludes fish products. Fish waste and similar products are typically classified under HS code 0511.91.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Animal bile?
The HS code for Animal bile is 051000 (Animal products; ambergris, castoreum, civet, musk, cantharides, bile (dried or not) glands and other animal products, for pharmaceutical purposes, fresh, chilled, frozen or otherwise provisionally preserved).
How do I classify Animal bile for customs?
Animal bile is classified under HS code 051000 — Animal products; ambergris, castoreum, civet, musk, cantharides, bile (dried or not) glands and other animal products, for pharmaceutical purposes, fresh, chilled, frozen or otherwise provisionally preserved. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Animal bile the same in all countries?
The base HS code 051000 for Animal bile is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.