HS Code for Preserved sardinella

Preserved sardinella is classified under HS code 1604.13. This classification is situated within Chapter 16, which governs the preparation of fish and aquatic invertebrates. Heading 1604 covers prepared or preserved fish, and subheading 1604.13 specifically groups sardines, sardinella, and brisling or sprats. To qualify for this code, the sardinella must be prepared or preserved whole or in pieces, but not minced. Common preparation methods include canning in oil, brine, tomato sauce, or other media. The classification is determined by the species of the fish and the fact that it has undergone processing (such as cooking or marinating) that exceeds the simple preservation methods found in Chapter 3.

Products Included

• Canned sardinella in vegetable oil
• Sardinella in tomato sauce or chili
• Marinated sardinella fillets
• Sardinella preserved in brine
• Fried sardinella in airtight containers
• Sardinella chunks in vinegar

Common Misclassification

Preserved sardinella is often confused with other fish preparations in the same heading. For instance, preserved salmon (1604.11) or preserved tunas (1604.14) are frequently mixed up in documentation. More importantly, fresh or chilled sardinella falls under 0302.43, and frozen sardinella falls under 0303.53. If the fish is only salted or in brine but not cooked or prepared in a sauce, it might be incorrectly placed in 0305. Additionally, if the sardinella is minced or made into a spread, it should be classified under 1604.20 instead of 1604.13.

FAQ

What is the HS code for preserved sardinella?

The specific HS code for prepared or preserved sardinella is 1604.13.

Is there a different code for sardinella in oil versus brine?

No, both sardinella in oil and sardinella in brine are classified under 1604.13, as the code covers various preservation media.