HS Code for Fresh mackerel
Fresh mackerel belonging to the Scomber genus is classified under HS code 0302.44. This classification is part of Chapter 3, which covers fish and aquatic invertebrates. Heading 0302 is designated for fish that are fresh or chilled, excluding fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. Subheading 0302.44 specifically identifies mackerel species such as Scomber scombrus (Atlantic mackerel), Scomber australasicus (Blue mackerel), and Scomber japonicus (Chub mackerel). The classification is determined by GRI 1 and GRI 6. To be classified under this code, the fish must be fresh or chilled. Chilling involves lowering the temperature of the fish to approximately 0 degrees Celsius using ice or refrigerated seawater, without freezing it. If the fish is frozen, it must be classified under 0303.54. Furthermore, the fish must be whole, headed, or gutted, but not filleted. Fillets are classified under 0304.44 or 0304.49 depending on the species and state. It is vital to distinguish between the Scomber genus and other fish commonly called mackerel, such as jack mackerel or Spanish mackerel, as they fall under different subheadings. Proper identification of the genus is the primary requirement for using 0302.44. Customs authorities often require the scientific name on commercial invoices to verify this classification.
Products Included
- Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus)
- Chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus)
- Blue mackerel (Scomber australasicus)
- Whole fresh mackerel
- Fresh gutted or headed mackerel (Scomber spp.)
Common Misclassification
The most frequent error is confusing 0302.44 with 0302.45, which is for jack and horse mackerel (Trachurus spp.). Another common misclassification is using 0303.54 for frozen mackerel. Additionally, Spanish mackerels (Scomberomorus spp.) are classified under 0302.49 as other mackerel.
FAQ
What is the HS code for Fresh mackerel?
The HS code for fresh or chilled mackerel of the genus Scomber is 0302.44.
Does this code include mackerel fillets?
No, mackerel fillets are classified under Heading 0304. HS code 0302.44 is for whole fish or fish that has been headed or gutted only.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Fresh mackerel?
The HS code for Fresh mackerel is 030244 (Fish; fresh or chilled, mackerel (Scomber scombrus, Scomber australasicus, Scomber japonicus), excluding fillets, fish meat of 0304, and edible fish offal of subheadings 0302.91 to 0302.99).
How do I classify Fresh mackerel for customs?
Fresh mackerel is classified under HS code 030244 — Fish; fresh or chilled, mackerel (Scomber scombrus, Scomber australasicus, Scomber japonicus), 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 mackerel the same in all countries?
The base HS code 030244 for Fresh mackerel is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.