HS Code for Frozen prawns

Frozen prawns are classified under HS code 0306.17. This code is found within Chapter 3, which covers fish and crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates. Heading 0306 is specific to crustaceans, whether in shell or not, and includes various states such as live, fresh, chilled, frozen, or even cooked by steaming or boiling in water while still in the shell. Subheading 0306.17 specifically covers 'other' shrimps and prawns that are frozen, which in practice refers to warm-water species like Vannamei or Black Tiger prawns. The classification remains 0306.17 regardless of whether the prawns are whole, headless, or peeled, provided they are frozen and have not been further prepared (such as breading or adding sauces). The inclusion of prawns cooked in-shell by boiling is a specific provision of this heading, distinguishing it from other meat products where cooking usually triggers a move to Chapter 16.

Products Included

• Frozen warm-water prawns (Penaeus spp.)
• Frozen peeled and deveined prawns
• Frozen head-on shell-on (HOSO) prawns
• Frozen prawns cooked in shell by steaming or boiling

Common Misclassification

Frozen prawns are often misclassified under 0306.16, which is reserved specifically for cold-water shrimps and prawns (such as Pandalus borealis). Importers must know the biological species to choose correctly. Another common error is using 1605.21 or 1605.29. These codes in Chapter 16 are for prawns that have been further prepared, such as breaded prawns (e.g., butterfly shrimp), prawns in a prepared sauce, or prawns that have been cooked after being peeled.

FAQ

What is the HS code for frozen prawns?

The HS code for most frozen warm-water prawns is 0306.17.

Does this code cover breaded prawns?

No, breaded prawns are considered a prepared food product and are classified under HS code 1605.21.