HS Code for Fresh sea cucumber
Fresh sea cucumbers are classified under HS code 0308.11. This classification falls under Chapter 3, which covers aquatic animals. Heading 0308 is specifically for aquatic invertebrates other than crustaceans and molluscs. Sea cucumbers, belonging to the class Holothuroidea, are explicitly named in the subheadings of 0308. Subheading 0308.11 is reserved for those that are live, fresh, or chilled. This code is used for raw sea cucumbers that have not been subjected to freezing, drying, or smoking. The classification remains 0308.11 even if the internal organs have been removed, provided the specimen remains fresh or chilled. Accurate classification is vital because sea cucumbers are often traded in various dried forms, which move the product into different subheadings. The "fresh" designation implies the product is in its natural state or has been kept at a temperature slightly above freezing to maintain its biological integrity without ice crystal formation.
Products Included
- Live Stichopus japonicus sea cucumbers
- Fresh Holothuroidea species chilled for transport
- Live sea cucumbers in oxygenated seawater tanks
- Chilled sea cucumbers with internal organs removed
- Freshly harvested sea cucumbers intended for immediate processing
Common Misclassification
Sea cucumbers are frequently misclassified under 0308.12 (frozen) or 0308.19 (dried, salted, or in brine). Because the majority of international trade in sea cucumbers involves the dried "beche-de-mer" form, 0308.19 is the most common point of confusion. Additionally, if the sea cucumber has been fully prepared or preserved (e.g., canned in sauce), it must be classified under 1605.61. Importers must ensure that the moisture content and temperature at the time of entry justify the "fresh" or "chilled" status of 0308.11.
FAQ
What is the HS code for fresh sea cucumber?
The HS code for live, fresh, or chilled sea cucumbers is 0308.11.
How are dried sea cucumbers classified differently?
Dried, salted, or smoked sea cucumbers are classified under HS code 0308.19, whereas 0308.11 is strictly for fresh or chilled states.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Fresh sea cucumber?
The HS code for Fresh sea cucumber is 030811 (Aquatic invertebrates; sea cucumbers (Stichopus japonicus, Holothuroidea), live, fresh or chilled).
How do I classify Fresh sea cucumber for customs?
Fresh sea cucumber is classified under HS code 030811 — Aquatic invertebrates; sea cucumbers (Stichopus japonicus, Holothuroidea), live, fresh or chilled. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Fresh sea cucumber the same in all countries?
The base HS code 030811 for Fresh sea cucumber is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.