HS Code for Fresh mussels

Fresh mussels are classified under HS code 0307.31. This classification is governed by the rules of Chapter 3, which covers fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic invertebrates. Heading 0307 is dedicated specifically to molluscs. Within this heading, mussels belonging to the genera Mytilus and Perna are explicitly identified. The subheading 0307.31 applies to these mussels when they are presented in a live, fresh, or chilled state. This includes mussels still in their shells or those that have been shucked (removed from the shell). The primary requirement for this code is that the product has not been frozen, dried, salted, or cooked. Chilling involves reducing the temperature to approximately 0°C to maintain freshness during transport without reaching the freezing point. This classification is determined by GRI 1 (terms of the heading) and GRI 6 (terms of the subheading), ensuring that the specific genus and the fresh state are the primary factors for identification.

Products Included

• Live Blue Mussels (Mytilus edulis)
• Fresh Mediterranean Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis)
• Chilled Green-lipped Mussels (Perna canaliculus)
• Live Perna perna mussels
• Shucked fresh mussel meat (not frozen)
• Mussels in shell, chilled on ice

Common Misclassification

Fresh mussels are most frequently misclassified with frozen mussels, which fall under HS code 0307.32. Another common mistake is using 1605.53, which is reserved for mussels that have been prepared or preserved (e.g., cooked, smoked, or canned in brine). It is also important to distinguish between the genera Mytilus/Perna and other molluscs; if the species is not one of these two, it may fall under the residual "other" category in 0307.91. Importers must ensure the product has not undergone any heat treatment, as even partial cooking can change the classification to Chapter 16.

FAQ

What is the HS code for fresh mussels?

The HS code for live, fresh, or chilled mussels (Mytilus spp., Perna spp.) is 0307.31.

Can shucked mussels be classified under 0307.31?

Yes, as long as the mussel meat is fresh or chilled and has not been frozen or cooked, it remains under 0307.31 regardless of whether the shell is present.