HS Code for Live sea urchin

The classification of live sea urchins is governed by the Harmonized System under code 0308.21. This classification falls within Chapter 3, which covers fish and crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates. Specifically, heading 0308 is reserved for aquatic invertebrates other than crustaceans and molluscs. Sea urchins, belonging to the class Echinoidea, are biologically distinct from the molluscs found in heading 0307. According to the General Interpretative Rules (GRI 1), classification is determined by the literal terms of the headings. Subheading 0308.21 is explicitly defined to include sea urchins that are live, fresh, or chilled. This code is essential for customs authorities to track the trade of live echinoderms, which often require specific sanitary and phytosanitary certifications. The classification remains 0308.21 regardless of whether the sea urchin is intended for immediate consumption, aquarium display, or further aquaculture, provided it remains in a live or fresh state during transport.

Products Included

• Strongylocentrotus spp. (Purple and Red sea urchins)
• Paracentrotus lividus (European edible sea urchin)
• Loxechinus albus (Chilean sea urchin)
• Echinus esculentus (Common sea urchin)
• Live sea urchins transported in oxygenated seawater tanks
• Fresh sea urchins packed on ice (chilled)

Common Misclassification

Live sea urchins are frequently misclassified under HS code 0307, which is reserved for molluscs such as clams, snails, and oysters. While both are aquatic invertebrates, the HS nomenclature separates them at the heading level. Another common error is using HS code 0308.29, which is the residual category for sea urchins that are frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. If the product has been processed beyond simple chilling, such as being cooked or preserved in airtight containers, it must be classified under Chapter 16, specifically HS code 1605.59.

FAQ

What is the HS code for live sea urchin?

The international HS code for live, fresh, or chilled sea urchins is 0308.21.

Does this code include sea urchin roe (uni)?

No, fresh or chilled sea urchin roe is typically classified under 0308.21 if it remains within the organism, but extracted roe may be classified under 0308.29 or 1605 depending on the state of preservation.