HS Code for Brined cod

Brined cod is classified under HS code 0305.62. This classification falls under Heading 0305, which covers fish that has been dried, salted, or in brine, as well as smoked fish. Specifically, 0305.62 is dedicated to cod of the species Gadus morhua, Gadus ogac, and Gadus macrocephalus. The classification is based on the preservation method: the fish must be salted or kept in brine but not dried or smoked. This process involves treating the fish with salt (sodium chloride) to reduce moisture content and inhibit bacterial growth. Brined cod is often referred to as 'wet-salted' cod. According to the Chapter 3 notes, the fish can be whole, headed, gutted, or in pieces, but if it is filleted, it must still meet the preservation criteria of being salted or in brine to stay in this heading. The classification is straightforward under GRI 1, provided the species is correctly identified as one of the Gadus varieties. If the cod were to be dried after salting, it would move to a different subheading within 0305, specifically 0305.51.

Products Included

• Wet-salted Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua)
• Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) in brine
• Greenland cod (Gadus ogac) preserved in salt
• Salted cod pieces or split cod not yet dried

Common Misclassification

The most frequent confusion arises with HS code 0305.51, which is for dried cod, even if it has been salted. The distinction lies in the moisture content and the 'dried' status. Another common error is using 0304 for frozen cod fillets; if the cod has been salted for preservation, 0305.62 takes precedence over 0304. Additionally, prepared cod products, such as cod in cream or breaded cod, are classified under 1604.19, as they involve preparation beyond simple salting or brining.

FAQ

What is the HS code for brined cod?

The HS code for cod (Gadus species) that is salted or in brine, but not dried or smoked, is 0305.62.

Is salted cod the same as dried cod in the HS system?

No. While both are in Heading 0305, dried cod (even if salted) is classified under 0305.51, whereas cod that is only salted or in brine (wet-salted) is classified under 0305.62.