Product classification
HS code for Salted squid: 0307.49
Molluscs, cuttle fish and squid, whether in shell or not, dried, salted, in brine, or smoked, cooked or not before or during the smoking process.
Classification of salted squid under HS 0307.49
Salted squid is classified under HS code 0307.49. This code is situated within Chapter 3 of the Harmonized System, which deals with fish and various aquatic invertebrates. Heading 0307 specifically addresses molluscs, and the 0307.4x series is dedicated to cuttlefish and squid. Subheading 0307.49 covers these molluscs when they are dried, salted, in brine, or smoked, but not frozen. The classification is based on GRI 1, which prioritizes the terms of the headings. For squid to be classified here, it must belong to the genera Loligo, Ommastrephes, or other related squid taxa. The salting process is a traditional method used to preserve the squid for extended periods, often resulting in a product that is used as a snack or a culinary ingredient. It is important to note that the squid can be in shell or not, and can even be cooked before or during the smoking process without leaving this classification. However, if the squid is fried, stuffed, or otherwise prepared as a meal, it would transition to Chapter 16. The 0307.49 code is the standard for international trade of cured squid products.
- Covers
- Dried shredded squid (salted)
- Whole salted squid in brine
- Smoked squid rings (not further prepared)
- Salt-cured cuttlefish
- Dried squid mantles
- Also under 0307.49
- Calbee Dried Squid
- Golden Dragon Dried Cuttlefish
- Dongwon Smoked Squid
- Spanish Brined Cuttlefish
Codes often confused with 0307.49
Common mistake. Salted squid is frequently misclassified under 0307.43, which is the code for frozen squid. While both are processed, the distinction between freezing and salting/drying is fundamental in the HS. Another common error is using 1605.54, which is for prepared or preserved squid (e.g., canned in ink or oil). If the squid has been seasoned with sugar, spices, and additives to make it a ready-to-eat snack, it may also be scrutinized for classification under Chapter 16.
Top exporters and importers of HS 030749 (the code used for salted squid), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 030749 (the code used for salted squid) in UN Comtrade data was Vietnam, with about 49% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Thailand, with 21% 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 030749, not only salted squid.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Vietnam* ~$172M 49% of world exports · partner records ↗
- 2 China $47M 14% of world exports
- 3 United States $29M 8.3% of world exports
World total: $347M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Thailand $86M 21% of world imports
- 2 United States $61M 15% of world imports
- 3 China $59M 15% of world imports
World total: $403M 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 salted squid
Brazil classifies salted squid under NCM 0307.49.00: HS 0307.49 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about salted squid
What is the HS code for Salted squid?
The HS code for Salted squid is 030749 (Molluscs; cuttle fish and squid, whether in shell or not, dried, salted, in brine, or smoked, cooked or not before or during the smoking process). The HS code for salted, dried, or brined squid is 0307.49.
How do I classify Salted squid for customs?
Salted squid is classified under HS code 030749 — Molluscs; cuttle fish and squid, whether in shell or not, dried, salted, in brine, or smoked, cooked or not before or during the smoking process. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include dried shredded squid snacks?
If the shredded squid is simply dried and salted, it falls under 0307.49. However, if it contains significant additives or is fully prepared as a snack food, it might be classified under 1605.54.
Which countries are the top exporters of salted squid (HS 030749)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 030749 (the code used for salted squid) in UN Comtrade data were Vietnam (about $172M, 49% of world exports), China ($47M) and the United States ($29M). World exports came to about $347M, 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 salted squid (HS 030749)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 030749 (the code used for salted squid) in UN Comtrade data were Thailand ($86M, 21% of world imports), the United States ($61M) and China ($59M). World imports came to about $403M, 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 Salted squid the same in all countries?
The base HS code 030749 for Salted squid 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 salted squid in Brazil?
In Brazil, salted squid (HS 030749) is classified under NCM 0307.49.00.