HS Code for Fresh carp

Fresh carp is classified under HS code 030273. This classification is part of Chapter 3, which covers fish and crustaceans. Specifically, heading 0302 is dedicated to fish that are fresh or chilled, excluding fish fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. The subheading 030273 is species-specific, covering fish of the Cyprinidae family, commonly known as carp. For a product to be classified here, it must be whole, or headed and gutted, but not filleted. The term "fresh or chilled" implies that the fish has been kept at a temperature near 0°C, typically using ice or refrigerated equipment, without being frozen. This distinction is vital because frozen carp is classified under a different heading (0303). The classification also depends on the biological identification of the species, as the World Customs Organization (WCO) specifies certain carp species to be included in this category to monitor international trade and biodiversity.

Products Included

• Common carp (Cyprinus carpio)
• Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)
• Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix)
• Bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis)
• Crucian carp (Carassius carassius)
• Prussian carp (Carassius gibelio)

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 030439, which is used for carp fillets. If the fish has been sliced into fillets, it can no longer stay in 0302. Another frequent error is using 030324, which is the code for frozen carp. Importers also sometimes mistakenly use 030289 (Other fish) if they fail to identify the fish specifically as a member of the Cyprinidae family.

FAQ

What is the HS code for fresh carp?

The HS code for fresh or chilled whole carp is 030273.

Is live carp classified under this code?

No, live carp is classified under HS code 030193. Heading 0302 only applies to fish that are no longer living but are fresh or chilled.