HS Code for Fresh shark

Fresh shark is classified under HS code 0302.81. Heading 0302 is dedicated to fish, fresh or chilled, excluding fish fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. Within this heading, the system differentiates between various species. Subheading 0302.81 specifically covers dogfish and other sharks. This classification applies to whole fish or fish that have been gutted or headed, but it excludes any fish that has been processed into fillets. The "fresh or chilled" requirement means the shark must be maintained at a temperature near 0°C without being frozen. This code is essential for monitoring the trade of shark species, many of which are subject to international conservation regulations like CITES. It is important to note that edible offal, such as livers and roes, are classified under different subheadings within 0302 (0302.91 to 0302.99). The classification remains 0302.81 even if the shark is presented without its fins, provided the body is fresh or chilled.

Products Included

• Fresh whole dogfish (Squalus acanthias)
• Chilled mako shark, headed and gutted
• Live sharks intended for the food trade
• Fresh blue shark carcasses on ice
• Chilled thresher shark, excluding fillets

Common Misclassification

Fresh shark is often confused with 0303.81, which is the code for frozen shark. Another significant misclassification involves 0304.47, which is the specific code for fresh or chilled shark fillets. If the shark has been processed into skinless, boneless pieces, it must move to 0304. Furthermore, shark fins are a unique case; they are classified under 0305.71 regardless of whether they are fresh, chilled, or dried, due to specific international trade monitoring requirements for finning.

FAQ

What is the HS code for fresh shark?

The HS code for fresh or chilled dogfish and other sharks (excluding fillets) is 0302.81.

Are shark fins classified under 0302.81?

No, shark fins are specifically classified under HS code 0305.71, even if they are fresh or chilled.