HS Code for Sturgeon Roe

Introduction to Sturgeon Roe and Caviar

Sturgeon roe, commonly known as caviar, is a luxury delicacy that has been prized for centuries. This exquisite food product is harvested from various species of sturgeon, many of which are now endangered due to overfishing and habitat loss. As a result, the international trade of sturgeon roe is heavily regulated, making it crucial for importers and exporters to understand the correct HS (Harmonized System) code for this product.

Understanding HS Codes

The Harmonized System is an internationally standardized system of names and numbers for classifying traded products. It is used by customs authorities around the world to identify products when assessing duties and taxes and for gathering statistics. For a luxury item like caviar, which is subject to strict trade regulations due to conservation concerns, using the correct HS code is particularly important.

HS Code for Sturgeon Roe

The specific HS code for sturgeon roe (caviar) is:

1604.31 – Caviar

This code falls under Chapter 16 of the HS, which covers “Preparations of meat, of fish or of crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates.” The full breakdown of the code is as follows:

• 16 – Chapter (Preparations of meat, fish, etc.)
• 04 – Heading (Prepared or preserved fish; caviar and caviar substitutes)
• 31 – Subheading (Caviar)

Importance of Correct HS Code Classification

Using the correct HS code for sturgeon roe is crucial for several reasons:

1. Legal Compliance: Proper classification ensures compliance with international trade regulations, particularly important for endangered species products like caviar.
2. Duty and Tax Assessment: Correct classification ensures accurate duty and tax calculations.
3. Trade Statistics: It contributes to accurate global trade statistics for this luxury item.
4. Conservation Efforts: Proper tracking helps in monitoring the trade of endangered sturgeon species.

Caviar Trade Regulations

Due to the endangered status of many sturgeon species, the international trade of caviar is regulated by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). All shipments of caviar must be accompanied by the appropriate CITES permits and certificates, in addition to using the correct HS code.

Challenges in Caviar Classification

While the HS code for caviar is straightforward, there can be challenges in classification:

• Caviar Substitutes: Products made from other fish roe (like salmon or trout) are classified differently.
• Processed Caviar Products: Caviar in prepared dishes or mixed with other ingredients may fall under different classifications.
• Aquaculture vs. Wild-Caught: While the HS code doesn’t distinguish between these, other documentation may be required to indicate the source.

FreightAmigo’s Role in Caviar Shipping

As a digital logistics platform, FreightAmigo plays a crucial role in facilitating the international trade of luxury goods like caviar. Our comprehensive services can assist businesses in navigating the complexities of shipping this high-value, regulated product:

1. Customs Documentation: We can help ensure all necessary documentation, including correct HS code usage and CITES permits, is in order.
2. Temperature-Controlled Shipping: Caviar requires specific temperature conditions during transport, which our platform can arrange through specialized carriers.
3. Insurance: Given the high value of caviar shipments, we can facilitate appropriate cargo insurance.
4. Real-Time Tracking: Our advanced tracking systems allow shippers to monitor their valuable caviar consignments throughout the journey.
5. Regulatory Compliance: We stay updated on international regulations regarding caviar trade, helping our clients remain compliant.

Conclusion

Understanding and correctly using the HS code for sturgeon roe (1604.31) is essential for the legal and efficient international trade of caviar. As a luxury product from endangered species, caviar requires extra attention to regulatory compliance. FreightAmigo’s digital logistics platform offers the expertise and services necessary to navigate these complexities, ensuring smooth and compliant shipments of this prized delicacy.

Whether you’re an importer, exporter, or distributor of caviar, partnering with a knowledgeable logistics provider like FreightAmigo can help streamline your operations and ensure compliance with international trade regulations. Our digital platform combines cutting-edge technology with logistics expertise to provide a seamless shipping experience for high-value, sensitive products like caviar.

Reference/Source

World Customs Organization, “HS Nomenclature 2022 Edition”, https://www.wcoomd.org/en/topics/nomenclature/instrument-and-tools/hs-nomenclature-2022-edition.aspx