Product Classification Guide

HS Code for Fish waste

0511.91 Animal products; of fish or crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates; dead animals of chapter 03, unfit for human consumption
Agriculture & Live Animals
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HS code 0511.91 is utilized for the classification of animal products of fish, crustaceans, molluscs, or other aquatic invertebrates that are unfit for human consumption. Chapter 5 of the Harmonized System covers products of animal origin not elsewhere specified or included. Heading 0511 is a broad category for animal products not fit for human consumption, and subheading 0511.91 is the specific carve-out for aquatic species. This classification is essential for distinguishing between edible fish parts and industrial or agricultural raw materials. The determination of whether a product is unfit for human consumption can be based on the nature of the product, such as scales or shells, or its condition, such as being decayed or contaminated. This code is often used for materials destined for the production of fertilizers, glues, or technical oils. According to the General Interpretative Rules, specifically GRI 1, the classification is governed by the legal notes of Section I, which excludes products fit for human consumption from this chapter. Therefore, any fish waste that is still edible or intended for food use must be classified in Chapter 3. This code serves as a vital category for the rendering and animal byproduct industries.

Products Included

  • Fish scales and fish bladders unfit for food
  • Fish waste resulting from industrial processing
  • Dead fish or crustaceans unfit for human consumption
  • Inedible fish eggs and roe
  • Waste of aquatic invertebrates

Common Misclassification

A common error is classifying fish waste under HS code 2301.20. While 2301.20 covers flours, meals, and pellets of fish used for animal feed, 0511.91 is for the raw, unprocessed waste. Another misclassification occurs with 0305, which is only for fish products that remain fit for human consumption.

FAQ

What is the HS code for fish waste?

The HS code for fish waste that is unfit for human consumption is 0511.91. This includes scales, bladders, and other inedible parts.

Is fish meal classified under 0511.91?

No, fish meal that has been processed into a flour or pellet for animal feed is classified under HS code 2301.20.

Industry

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS code for Fish waste?

The HS code for Fish waste is 051191 (Animal products; of fish or crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates; dead animals of chapter 03, unfit for human consumption).

How do I classify Fish waste for customs?

Fish waste is classified under HS code 051191 — Animal products; of fish or crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates; dead animals of chapter 03, unfit for human consumption. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Is the HS code for Fish waste the same in all countries?

The base HS code 051191 for Fish waste is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.