HS Code for Smoked shrimp

Smoked shrimp and prawns are classified under HS code 0306.95. This classification falls under Chapter 3, which covers aquatic invertebrates. Heading 0306 is specifically for crustaceans, whether in shell or not. The structure of 0306 is divided into frozen (0306.1x), live/fresh/chilled (0306.3x), and other (0306.9x). Subheading 0306.95 is the specific destination for smoked shrimps and prawns. This classification applies regardless of whether the shrimp are in their shells or have been peeled. It also covers products that have been cooked before or during the smoking process. This is a critical distinction because, generally, cooked crustaceans are classified under 1605; however, the smoking process keeps them within Chapter 3 under this specific provision. The term shrimps and prawns in the HS nomenclature covers a wide variety of species, including those from the families Pandalidae, Penaeidae, and Crangonidae. Whether the product is a small cocktail shrimp or a large tiger prawn, if it is smoked and not further prepared (such as being breaded or placed in a sauce), it remains under 0306.95. This code is essential for international trade statistics and for determining applicable tariffs, which can vary significantly between raw, frozen, and smoked seafood products.

Products Included

• Smoked tiger prawns (shell-on or peeled)
• Smoked cocktail shrimp
• Smoked and dried shrimp used as condiments
• Hot-smoked king prawns
• Smoked shrimp meat without shells

Common Misclassification

Smoked shrimp is often misclassified under 0306.17 (frozen shrimp) or 0306.36 (fresh/chilled shrimp) if the importer focuses on the temperature rather than the smoking process. More significantly, it is often confused with 1605.21 or 1605.29, which cover prepared or preserved shrimps and prawns. If the shrimp are preserved in airtight containers (like cans) or seasoned with sauces beyond the smoking process, Chapter 16 is more appropriate. Furthermore, if the shrimp are dried but not smoked, they should be classified under 0306.95 only if the smoking is the primary characteristic; otherwise, other subheadings in 0306.9 may apply.

FAQ

What is the HS code for smoked shrimp?

The HS code for smoked shrimps and prawns is 0306.95.

Are smoked shrimp in shells classified differently?

No, HS code 0306.95 covers smoked shrimps and prawns whether they are in the shell or not, and whether or not they were cooked before smoking.