Product classification
HS code for Live abalone: 0307.81
Molluscs, abalone (Haliotis spp.), whether in shell or not, live, fresh or chilled.
Classification of live abalone under HS 0307.81
Live abalone is classified under HS code 0307.81 based on its status as a mollusc and its preservation state. Heading 0307 covers molluscs, whether in shell or not, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. Within this heading, the 0307.8x series is dedicated specifically to abalone (Haliotis spp.). Subheading 0307.81 addresses those that are live, fresh, or chilled. The classification process follows the Harmonized System's hierarchical structure, moving from the broad category of animal products in Section I to the specific genus in Chapter 3. Because the product is live and belongs to the Haliotis species, it meets the precise criteria for 0307.81. This classification is vital for monitoring the trade of endangered species, as many abalone varieties are subject to CITES regulations and specific import permits. Proper classification ensures that the importer complies with environmental protections and food safety standards required for live molluscs intended for consumption or aquaculture.
- Covers
- Live Haliotis midae
- Live Haliotis rubra
- Fresh abalone in shell
- Chilled abalone meat (not frozen)
- Live ear shells
- Also under 0307.81
- Haliotis rufescens (Red Abalone)
- Haliotis laevigata (Greenlip Abalone)
- Haliotis midae (South African Abalone)
- California Abalone
Codes often confused with 0307.81
Common mistake. HS code 0307.83 is frequently used by mistake; this code is specifically for frozen abalone. Additionally, 0307.91 (Other live, fresh or chilled molluscs) might be used if the specific abalone subheadings are overlooked. It is also important to distinguish these from prepared or preserved abalone, such as canned abalone, which falls under 1605.57.
Top exporters and importers of HS 030781 (the code used for live abalone), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 030781 (the code used for live abalone) in UN Comtrade data was South Korea, with 37% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 31% 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 030781, not only live abalone.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 South Korea $50M 37% of world exports
- 2 China $28M 20% of world exports
- 3 Australia $25M 19% of world exports
World total: $135M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Japan $38M 31% of world imports
- 2 China $37M 30% of world imports
- 3 Hong Kong $17M 14% of world imports
World total: $123M 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 live abalone
Brazil classifies live abalone under NCM 0307.81.00: HS 0307.81 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about live abalone
What is the HS code for Live abalone?
The HS code for Live abalone is 030781 (Molluscs; abalone (Haliotis spp.), whether in shell or not, live, fresh or chilled). The HS code for live abalone is 0307.81.
How do I classify Live abalone for customs?
Live abalone is classified under HS code 030781 — Molluscs; abalone (Haliotis spp.), whether in shell or not, live, fresh or chilled. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are dried abalones included in this code?
No, dried abalones are classified under HS code 0307.87.
Which countries are the top exporters of live abalone (HS 030781)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 030781 (the code used for live abalone) in UN Comtrade data were South Korea ($50M, 37% of world exports), China ($28M) and Australia ($25M). World exports came to about $135M, 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 live abalone (HS 030781)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 030781 (the code used for live abalone) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($38M, 31% of world imports), China ($37M) and Hong Kong ($17M). World imports came to about $123M, 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 Live abalone the same in all countries?
The base HS code 030781 for Live abalone 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 live abalone in Brazil?
In Brazil, live abalone (HS 030781) is classified under NCM 0307.81.00.