HS Code for Frozen pork

The classification of frozen pork under HS code 0203.29 is determined by a process of elimination within the 0203 heading. Heading 0203 covers meat of swine, fresh, chilled, or frozen. Within this, the system differentiates between fresh or chilled (0203.1x) and frozen (0203.2x). Subheading 0203.29 is a residual or basket category for frozen meat that does not meet the specific anatomical definitions of carcasses (0203.21) or bone-in hams and shoulders (0203.22). According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and 6, classification is dictated by the terms of the headings and subheadings. For a product to fall under 0203.29, it must be skeletal muscle meat from a pig, it must be frozen (typically maintained at -18 degrees Celsius or lower), and it must not be a whole or half carcass or a bone-in cut from the leg or shoulder. This category is vital for international trade as it encompasses the most common commercial cuts used in retail and food service, such as boneless loins and bellies. The distinction between meat and offal is also critical; 0203.29 only includes muscle tissue, whereas organs are classified in heading 0206. Furthermore, the meat must be unprepared, meaning it has not been cooked, seasoned, or preserved by processes like salting or smoking, which would move the classification to Chapter 16 or heading 0210.

Products Included

• Boneless pork loin
• Frozen pork belly (flitches)
• Boneless pork shoulder
• Frozen pork ribs
• Diced frozen pork
• Pork tenderloin
• Boneless ham cuts

Common Misclassification

This code is often confused with 0203.19, which is for fresh or chilled other pork cuts. The distinction lies entirely in the preservation method. Another common error is using 0203.22 for boneless hams; however, 0203.22 specifically requires the bone to be present. If the bone is removed, it must be classified under 0203.29. It is also confused with 0206.49, which covers edible offal like hearts or kidneys rather than skeletal muscle.

FAQ

What is the HS code for frozen pork?

The HS code for frozen pork (other than carcasses or bone-in hams/shoulders) is 0203.29.

Does 0203.29 include seasoned pork?

No, if the pork has been seasoned, marinated, or cooked, it is classified under Chapter 16, typically 1602.49.