HS Code for Chilled salmon fillets

HS code 0304.41 is designated for fresh or chilled fillets of specific salmon species, including Pacific, Atlantic, and Danube salmon. Under the Harmonized System, fillets are defined as strips of meat cut parallel to the fish's backbone, which may or may not have the skin or bones removed. This classification is distinct from whole fish (Heading 0302) because the product has undergone a specific level of processing (filleting). The "fresh or chilled" designation requires that the product has not been frozen, salted, or dried. The species specificity is crucial here; 0304.41 explicitly lists Oncorhynchus nerka, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha, and Salmo salar, among others. If the fillets were from a different salmonid species not listed, they might fall under 0304.49. The classification remains 0304.41 even if the fillets are scaled or have pin-bones removed, provided they have not been cooked or further prepared. This code is vital for customs authorities to track the trade of high-value processed fish products and ensure appropriate food safety regulations are applied.

Products Included

• Fresh Atlantic salmon fillets
• Chilled Pacific salmon fillets (Oncorhynchus spp.)
• Skin-on or skinless chilled salmon fillets
• Salmon fillets with pin-bones removed

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 0304.81, which is used for frozen salmon fillets. The distinction between "chilled" and "frozen" is strictly enforced; any product that has been frozen for preservation must be moved to the 0303 or 0304.8x series. Additionally, salmon steaks (cross-sections) are sometimes incorrectly placed here, though they may belong in 0302 if they contain the backbone. Prepared or marinated fillets may also be misclassified here instead of Chapter 16.

FAQ

What is the HS code for chilled salmon fillets?

The HS code for fresh or chilled fillets of Atlantic, Pacific, or Danube salmon is 0304.41.

Does this code include frozen salmon fillets?

No, frozen salmon fillets are classified under HS code 0304.81. Code 0304.41 is strictly for fresh or chilled products.