Product classification
HS code for Canned scallops: 1605.52
Mollusc preparations, scallops, including queen scallops, prepared or preserved.
Classification of canned scallops under HS 1605.52
Canned scallops fall under HS code 1605.52, which is specifically designated for molluscs of the Pectinidae family that have been prepared or preserved. The classification logic follows the transition from raw or minimally processed seafood in Chapter 03 to more complex preparations in Chapter 16. Scallops in this category have typically been cooked, seasoned, or preserved in a medium such as brine, oil, or sauce before being sealed in airtight containers. This processing ensures the product is shelf-stable and ready for culinary use. The Harmonized System distinguishes between different types of molluscs, and 1605.52 is specific to scallops and queen scallops. The use of airtight packaging is a primary indicator for this classification, as it signifies a level of preservation that exceeds the scope of Chapter 03, which only allows for fresh, chilled, frozen, or salted products that have not been cooked or prepared into a dish.
- Covers
- Canned queen scallops
- Scallops preserved in brine
- Scallops in garlic or butter sauce in cans
- Smoked scallops in airtight containers
- Prepared scallop meat in glass jars
- Also under 1605.52
- SeaPak Scallops
- Trident Seafoods Scallops
- Hokkaido Scallops (processed)
- various European brands for frozen queen scallops
Codes often confused with 1605.52
Common mistake. The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 0307, which covers scallops that are fresh, chilled, or frozen. Importers often mistakenly use 0307 for canned products if they focus only on the species rather than the preparation method. Another potential error is using 1605.53, which is reserved for mussels, or 1605.59, which is a residual category for other molluscs. Accurate classification requires identifying the specific mollusc family and the preservation method used.
Top exporters and importers of HS 160552 (the code used for canned scallops), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 160552 (the code used for canned scallops) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 51% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Taiwan, with about 31% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 160552, not only canned scallops.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $119M 51% of world exports
- 2 Japan $78M 34% of world exports
- 3 Netherlands $16M 6.8% of world exports
World total: $232M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Taiwan* ~$46M 31% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 2 Japan $45M 30% of world imports
- 3 South Korea $9.9M 6.7% of world imports
World total: $149M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. UN Comtrade records Taiwan as "Other Asia, not elsewhere specified". Saudi Arabia's exports under that code are left out: they are far too large to be trade with Taiwan, so mostly undisclosed partners. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for canned scallops
Brazil classifies canned scallops under NCM 1605.52.00: HS 1605.52 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about canned scallops
What is the HS code for Canned scallops?
The HS code for Canned scallops is 160552 (Mollusc preparations; scallops, including queen scallops, prepared or preserved). Canned scallops are classified under HS code 1605.52 as prepared or preserved molluscs.
How do I classify Canned scallops for customs?
Canned scallops is classified under HS code 160552 — Mollusc preparations; scallops, including queen scallops, prepared or preserved. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are scallops in glass jars classified the same as canned scallops?
Yes, as long as the glass jars are airtight and the scallops are prepared or preserved, they fall under 1605.52.
Which countries are the top exporters of canned scallops (HS 160552)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 160552 (the code used for canned scallops) in UN Comtrade data were China ($119M, 51% of world exports), Japan ($78M) and the Netherlands ($16M). World exports came to about $232M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of canned scallops (HS 160552)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 160552 (the code used for canned scallops) in UN Comtrade data were Taiwan (about $46M, 31% of world imports), Japan ($45M) and South Korea ($9.9M). World imports came to about $149M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Canned scallops the same in all countries?
The base HS code 160552 for Canned scallops is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for canned scallops in Brazil?
In Brazil, canned scallops (HS 160552) is classified under NCM 1605.52.00.