HS Code for Chilled mackerel

Chilled mackerel is classified under HS code 0302.44 according to the nomenclature of the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System. Chapter 3 covers edible aquatic animals, and heading 0302 is specifically designated for fish, fresh or chilled, excluding fish fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. The subheading 0302.44 is restricted to mackerel belonging to the species Scomber scombrus, Scomber australasicus, and Scomber japonicus. To qualify for this code, the fish must be presented whole or in a minimally processed state, such as gutted or with the head removed. If the mackerel were to be filleted, it would move to heading 0304. The "chilled" status is critical; it refers to fish that has been reduced in temperature to approximately 0°C (32°F) using ice or mechanical refrigeration, but not frozen. This classification ensures that fresh mackerel is distinguished from frozen varieties or processed fish products in international trade statistics and customs duty applications. Proper classification is essential because mackerel is a highly traded commodity subject to various quotas and environmental regulations. Importers must ensure that the species matches the Scomber genus exactly, as other fish often referred to as "mackerel" in common parlance, such as Horse Mackerel, are classified under different subheadings like 0302.45. The distinction between fresh/chilled and frozen is a primary divider in the HS system for fish, as the logistics, shelf life, and market value differ significantly between these states. Consequently, 0302.44 serves as the primary identifier for the fresh mackerel trade globally.

Products Included

• Whole chilled Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus)
• Fresh gutted Blue mackerel (Scomber australasicus)
• Chilled Chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus), head-off
• Fresh mackerel on ice for retail sale
• Whole live mackerel intended for human consumption

Common Misclassification

A common error is classifying chilled mackerel under HS code 0303.54, which is reserved for frozen mackerel. Another frequent misclassification occurs with mackerel fillets, which must be classified under HS code 0304.49 if fresh or chilled. Furthermore, Horse Mackerel (Trachurus spp.) is often confused with true mackerel but is correctly classified under HS code 0302.45.

FAQ

What is the HS code for chilled mackerel?

The HS code for fresh or chilled mackerel (Scomber spp.) is 0302.44.

Are mackerel fillets covered under this code?

No, fish fillets, even if fresh or chilled, are classified under heading 0304. HS code 0302.44 is for whole or gutted fish only.