HS Code for Dried sea cucumber
Dried sea cucumbers are classified under HS code 0308.19. Chapter 03 covers aquatic animals, and heading 0308 is specifically for aquatic invertebrates other than crustaceans and molluscs. Sea cucumbers belong to the class Holothuroidea. Subheading 0308.19 covers those that are dried, salted, in brine, or smoked. This classification is essential for international trade, particularly in Asian markets where dried sea cucumber (trepang or bêche-de-mer) is a high-value commodity. The code applies to whole, gutted, or pieces of sea cucumber, provided they have not been prepared or preserved by methods other than those specified in the heading. Like other seafood, if the product undergoes extensive processing such as being cooked and vacuum-packed in a seasoned liquid, it moves to heading 1605. Because many sea cucumber species are protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), using the correct HS code is the first step in ensuring legal and sustainable trade documentation is provided.
Products Included
- Dried whole sea cucumbers
- Salted sea cucumbers
- Smoked sea cucumbers
- Dried sea cucumber skins or pieces
- Sea cucumbers in brine
Common Misclassification
Sea cucumbers are often misclassified under HS code 0308.11, which is reserved for live, fresh, or chilled specimens. Another error is confusing them with molluscs in heading 0307. Furthermore, if the sea cucumber has been fully cooked and preserved in a way that makes it a prepared foodstuff (e.g., canned or in a ready-to-eat pouch), it should be classified under HS code 1605.61.
FAQ
What is the HS code for dried sea cucumber?
The HS code for dried, salted, in brine, or smoked sea cucumber is 0308.19.
Do I need a CITES permit for dried sea cucumber?
Certain species of sea cucumber, such as those in the genus Holothuria, are listed under CITES Appendix II. While the HS code 0308.19 remains the same, you must check the specific species to determine if additional environmental permits are required.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Dried sea cucumber?
The HS code for Dried sea cucumber is 030819 (Aquatic invertebrates; sea cucumbers (Stichopus japonicus, Holothuroidea), dried, salted or in brine, smoked, whether or not cooked before or during the smoking process).
How do I classify Dried sea cucumber for customs?
Dried sea cucumber is classified under HS code 030819 — Aquatic invertebrates; sea cucumbers (Stichopus japonicus, Holothuroidea), dried, salted or in brine, smoked, whether or not cooked before or during the smoking process. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Dried sea cucumber the same in all countries?
The base HS code 030819 for Dried sea cucumber is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.