HS Code for Fresh halibut
Fresh halibut is classified under HS code 0302.21. This code is located in Chapter 3 of the Harmonized System, which covers fish and crustaceans. Heading 0302 is specifically for fish, fresh or chilled, excluding fillets and other fish meat. Subheading 0302.21 is dedicated to halibut, which includes the species Reinhardtius hippoglossoides (Greenland halibut), Hippoglossus hippoglossus (Atlantic halibut), and Hippoglossus stenolepis (Pacific halibut). The classification is strictly for fish that are fresh or chilled. Chilling is defined as the process of lowering the temperature of the fish to a point near 0°C without freezing it. This code applies to whole fish or fish that have been gutted or had their heads removed. It is critical to distinguish these from fillets, which are classified under heading 0304. The Harmonized System uses these specific subheadings to monitor the trade of high-value species like halibut. Because halibut is a flatfish, it is grouped within the 0302.2 series, but it is distinguished from plaice (0302.22), sole (0302.23), and turbot (0302.24). Proper identification of the species is necessary to ensure the correct tariff rate is applied and to comply with international trade agreements regarding specific fish stocks.
Products Included
- Fresh Atlantic halibut (whole or gutted)
- Fresh Pacific halibut (whole or gutted)
- Fresh Greenland halibut (whole or gutted)
- Chilled halibut on ice
Common Misclassification
The most frequent misclassification is between fresh halibut (0302.21) and frozen halibut (0303.21). Another common error involves halibut fillets; fresh or chilled halibut fillets are classified under HS code 0304.43, while frozen fillets are under 0304.83. Importers must also be careful not to classify other flatfish, such as large flounders, under the halibut code, as they belong to 0302.29.
FAQ
What is the HS code for fresh halibut?
The HS code for fresh or chilled halibut (whole or gutted) is 0302.21.
Are Greenland halibut and Atlantic halibut under the same code?
Yes, both species are classified under 0302.21 when they are fresh or chilled and not filleted.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Fresh halibut?
The HS code for Fresh halibut is 030221 (Fish; fresh or chilled, halibut (Reinhardtius hippoglossoides, Hippoglossus hippoglossus, Hippoglossus stenolepis), excluding fillets, fish meat of 0304, and edible fish offal of subheadings 0302.91 to 0302.99).
How do I classify Fresh halibut for customs?
Fresh halibut is classified under HS code 030221 — Fish; fresh or chilled, halibut (Reinhardtius hippoglossoides, Hippoglossus hippoglossus, Hippoglossus stenolepis), excluding fillets, fish meat of 0304, and edible fish offal of subheadings 0302.91 to 0302.99. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Fresh halibut the same in all countries?
The base HS code 030221 for Fresh halibut is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.