HS Code for Chilled cod

Classification of chilled cod under HS code 0302.51 is determined by the Harmonized System's hierarchical structure. Chapter 3 covers fish and crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates. Heading 0302 specifically addresses fish, fresh or chilled, excluding fish fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. Within this heading, the 0302.5x series is reserved for Gadidae family members. Subheading 0302.51 is explicitly designated for the species Gadus morhua, Gadus ogac, and Gadus macrocephalus. To qualify for this code, the fish must be presented whole, headed, or gutted, but not filleted. The state must be "fresh or chilled," meaning it has been cooled to a temperature around 0°C (32°F) without being frozen. If the fish has been frozen, even if subsequently thawed, it cannot be classified here. The classification follows General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and 6, which prioritize the terms of the headings and subheadings. This code is essential for customs authorities to monitor trade volumes of these specific Atlantic, Pacific, and Greenland cod species, which are subject to various international fishing quotas and environmental regulations. Proper documentation must reflect the scientific name to ensure the correct application of 0302.51 rather than the generic "other fish" categories. The product must not be smoked, salted, or dried, as those processes move the classification to heading 0305.

Products Included

• Whole fresh Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua)
• Gutted and headed Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) on ice
• Chilled Greenland cod (Gadus ogac)
• Fresh cod presented with skin on but not filleted

Common Misclassification

Common misclassifications often occur with HS code 0303.63, which is reserved for frozen cod. The distinction between "chilled" and "frozen" is a frequent point of contention in customs audits. Additionally, importers often confuse 0302.51 with 0304.44, which covers fresh or chilled fillets of cod. If the fish has been processed into fillets, it must be moved to heading 0304 regardless of its fresh state. Another error involves 0305.32, which covers fish fillets, dried, salted or in brine, but not smoked. Using the wrong code can lead to incorrect duty payments or regulatory delays.

FAQ

What is the HS code for chilled cod?

The HS code for fresh or chilled cod (specifically Gadus morhua, Gadus ogac, and Gadus macrocephalus) is 0302.51.

Does this code include frozen cod fillets?

No, frozen cod fillets are classified under HS code 0304.71. HS code 0302.51 is strictly for fresh or chilled fish, excluding fillets.