Product classification
HS code for Fresh snakehead fillets: 0304.39
Fish fillets, fresh or chilled, carp (as specified by the WCO), eels (Anguilla spp.), and snakeheads (Channa spp.).
Classification of fresh snakehead fillets under HS 0304.39
Fresh snakehead fillets are classified under HS code 0304.39. This classification follows the hierarchical structure of the Harmonized System, where Heading 0304 is designated for fish fillets and other fish meat (whether or not minced), fresh, chilled, or frozen. The distinction between Heading 0302 (whole fish) and Heading 0304 (fillets) is based on the level of primary processing. A fillet is defined as a strip of meat cut parallel to the backbone of the fish, consisting of the right or left side, where the head, viscera, and most bones have been removed. Subheading 0304.39 specifically identifies fresh or chilled fillets of carp, eels, and snakeheads (Channa spp.). The classification requires that the product be maintained in a fresh or chilled state; if the fillets are frozen, they would be classified under a different subheading within 0304, specifically 0304.69 or similar depending on the specific regional tariff schedule. The presence of skin on the fillet does not change the classification. This code is essential for trade because snakehead fillets are a high-value commodity in various international markets. Importers must provide clear evidence that the fillets are from the Channa genus and have not been subjected to freezing temperatures during transport. Misclassification often occurs when the species is not clearly identified or when the distinction between "chilled" and "frozen" is blurred in shipping documents.
- Covers
- Fresh snakehead fillets with skin
- Chilled skinless snakehead fillets
- Fresh snakehead meat portions (non-minced)
- Chilled snakehead sides
- Also under 0304.39
- European Eel Fillets
- Grass Carp Fillets
- Silver Carp Fillets
- Giant Snakehead Fillets
Codes often confused with 0304.39
Common mistake. The most common misclassification is with whole fresh snakehead (0302.79) or frozen snakehead fillets (0304.69). It is also sometimes confused with fillets of other freshwater fish like Nile tilapia (0304.31) if the species is not documented.
Top exporters and importers of HS 030439 (the code used for fresh snakehead fillets), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 030439 (the code used for fresh snakehead fillets) in UN Comtrade data was the Netherlands, with 45% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Italy, with 30% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 030439, not only fresh snakehead fillets.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Netherlands $31M 45% of world exports
- 2 Greece $11M 17% of world exports
- 3 Spain $6.7M 9.8% of world exports
World total: $68M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Italy $23M 30% of world imports
- 2 Netherlands $16M 20% of world imports
- 3 Singapore $7.7M 10% of world imports
World total: $77M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for fresh snakehead fillets
Brazil classifies fresh snakehead fillets under NCM 0304.39.00: HS 0304.39 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about fresh snakehead fillets
What is the HS code for Fresh snakehead fillets?
The HS code for Fresh snakehead fillets is 030439 (Fish fillets; fresh or chilled, carp (as specified by the WCO), eels (Anguilla spp.), and snakeheads (Channa spp.)). The HS code for fresh or chilled fillets of snakehead (Channa spp.) is 0304.39.
How do I classify Fresh snakehead fillets for customs?
Fresh snakehead fillets is classified under HS code 030439 — Fish fillets; fresh or chilled, carp (as specified by the WCO), eels (Anguilla spp.), and snakeheads (Channa spp.). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are frozen snakehead fillets covered under this code?
No, this code is strictly for fresh or chilled fillets. Frozen fillets are classified under subheading 0304.69 or 0304.99.
Which countries are the top exporters of fresh snakehead fillets (HS 030439)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 030439 (the code used for fresh snakehead fillets) in UN Comtrade data were the Netherlands ($31M, 45% of world exports), Greece ($11M) and Spain ($6.7M). World exports came to about $68M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of fresh snakehead fillets (HS 030439)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 030439 (the code used for fresh snakehead fillets) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($23M, 30% of world imports), the Netherlands ($16M) and Singapore ($7.7M). World imports came to about $77M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Fresh snakehead fillets the same in all countries?
The base HS code 030439 for Fresh snakehead fillets is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for fresh snakehead fillets in Brazil?
In Brazil, fresh snakehead fillets (HS 030439) is classified under NCM 0304.39.00.