HS Code for Salted fish roe

Salted fish roe is classified under HS code 0305.20. This classification is part of Chapter 03, which covers fish and crustaceans. Heading 0305 is dedicated to fish that has been dried, salted, or in brine, as well as smoked fish. Subheading 0305.20 specifically addresses the livers, roes, and milt of fish that have undergone these preservation methods. The classification is determined by the state of the product: it must be more than just 'chilled' or 'frozen' (which fall under 0302 or 0303), but it must not be so processed that it becomes 'prepared or preserved' (which falls under Chapter 16). Salted roe in 0305.20 is typically a raw product that has been stabilized with salt for long-term storage or as a preliminary step before further culinary use. The essential character is defined by the preservation method (salting) and the biological nature of the product (roe). This code is used globally for bulk salted roe traded for further processing into spreads or specialized delicacies.

Products Included

• Salted salmon roe (Sujiko) intended for further processing.
• Dried and salted mullet roe, often known as Bottarga.
• Salted cod roe used as a base for taramasalata.
• Salted herring roe used in traditional Japanese cuisine.
• Brined fish milt preserved for transport.

Common Misclassification

Salted fish roe is frequently misclassified under HS code 1604.31 or 1604.32. These codes are for caviar and caviar substitutes that have been 'prepared'—meaning they have been seasoned, flavored, or packaged for direct consumption as a finished food product. Another common error is using 0303.91, which is for frozen fish roe. The distinction lies in the salt content; if the roe is preserved primarily by salt rather than cold, 0305.20 is the correct choice. Finally, fresh roe still inside the fish is classified with the fish itself in 0302.

FAQ

What is the HS code for salted fish roe?

The HS code for salted fish roe is 0305.20. This applies to roe that has been salted or dried but not otherwise prepared as caviar.

Is Bottarga classified under this code?

Yes, Bottarga, which is the dried and salted pouch of fish roe, is typically classified under 0305.20 because it is preserved through drying and salting without the additions that would move it to Chapter 16.