HS Code for Dried hake

Dried hake is classified under HS code 0305.53. This classification is based on the biological family of the fish and the method of preservation. Hake belongs to the family Merlucciidae, which is one of the families specifically listed in the description for subheading 0305.53. According to the Harmonized System's Chapter 3 notes, heading 0305 applies to fish that are dried, salted, or in brine. The subheading 0305.53 acts as a collective category for dried fish of the families Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae, and Muraenolepididae, excluding cod. To qualify for this code, the hake must be dried and must not have been smoked. The inclusion of the Merlucciidae family ensures that various species of hake, such as Merluccius merluccius, are captured under this specific tariff line when traded in a dried state.

Products Included

• Dried whole hake
• Dried hake without heads or tails
• Salted dried hake (non-smoked)
• Stockfish style dried hake

Common Misclassification

A common misclassification occurs with HS code 0305.59, which is a residual category for "other" dried fish. Because hake belongs to the Merlucciidae family, it must be classified under 0305.53 rather than the general 0305.59. Furthermore, if the hake is dried but in the form of fillets, it should be classified under 0305.32. Importers also occasionally confuse this with 0302.54, which is the code for fresh or chilled hake, or 0303.66, which is for frozen hake.

FAQ

What is the HS code for dried hake?

The standard HS code for dried hake (not smoked) is 0305.53.

Does this code include frozen hake?

No, frozen hake is classified under heading 0303, specifically 0303.66. HS code 0305.53 is strictly for fish that has been dried.