HS Code for Sea Cucumbers
TL;DR: The primary HS code for sea cucumbers is 0308.30 for fresh forms and 0308.19 for processed bêche-de-mer in the 2025 HS codes guide. Use our table for regional variations, 2025 changes, and tariff compliance tips to avoid customs delays in exports to US, EU, and GCC.
What Is the HS Code for Sea Cucumbers?
The HS code for sea cucumbers falls under 0308.30 in Chapter 03 of the Harmonized System for 2025.
HS codes classify traded goods for customs duties and statistics worldwide. Sea cucumbers, known as holothurians, are aquatic invertebrates.
- Chapter 03: Fish, crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates.
- Heading 0308: Aquatic invertebrates excluding crustaceans and molluscs.
- Subheading 0308.30: Specifically sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and similar.
This applies globally per WCO standards, with national extensions.
HS Code for Processed Sea Cucumbers (Bêche-de-Mer) 2025
Processed bêche-de-mer uses HS code 0308.19 for dried, salted, or frozen forms in 2025.
Drying or boiling changes classification from fresh sea cucumbers.
- Fresh or chilled: 0308.30.
- Frozen: 0308.19.
- Dried or salted: 0308.19 or related subheadings.
- Check processing method for accurate HS code for sea cucumbers.
- Always verify with destination country's tariff schedule.
2025 HS Code Changes Affecting Sea Cucumbers
Key 2025 HS code changes impact sea cucumber exports, especially in e-commerce and regional tariffs.
No WCO major revision until 2027, but national updates apply.
| Region | 2025 HS Code Change | Impact on Sea Cucumbers | Example HS Code |
| US (HTS) | De minimis ends Aug 29; stricter enforcement | Higher scrutiny on low-value shipments | 0308.30.0000 |
| GCC Countries | 12-digit HS codes from Jan 1 | More precise e-commerce classification | 0308.30.XX.XX |
| EU | Combined Nomenclature updates | Refined aquatic invertebrate codes | 0308 30 00 |
| China | National tariff adjustments | Sea cucumber import quotas tightened | 0308.30.0000 |
| Australia | Bio-security HS refinements | Stricter for dried products | 0308.30.00 |
Table alt: "2025 HS code changes for sea cucumbers by region".
How to Find the Correct HS Code for Sea Cucumbers: Step-by-Step
This 2025 guide outlines how to classify sea cucumbers accurately for tariff compliance.
- Determine product state: fresh, frozen, dried, or live.
- Identify Chapter 03 for aquatic products.
- Select heading 0308 for other aquatic invertebrates.
- Choose subheading: 0308.30 fresh or 0308.19 processed.
- Append national digits for regions like GCC 12-digit HS codes.
Use official databases for confirmation.
Regional HS Codes for Sea Cucumbers Exports 2025
Exporting sea cucumbers requires region-specific HS codes to ensure smooth clearance.
- US: 0308.30.0000 – Subject to FDA checks.
- EU: 0308 30 00 – CITES if endangered species.
- GCC: 0308.30.XX.XX – New 12-digit for duties.
- China: 0308.30 – High demand, quota limits.
- Australia: 0308.30.00 – Biosecurity focus.
Common Mistakes with HS Code for Sea Cucumbers
Avoid these pitfalls in 2025 HS codes for sea cucumbers to prevent penalties.
- Misclassifying processed as fresh (0308.30 vs 0308.19).
- Ignoring national extensions like GCC 12-digit HS codes.
- Overlooking 2025 de minimis changes in US.
- Not checking species variations under holothurians.
- Failing to update for tariff compliance 2025.
Benefits of Correct HS Code Classification 2025
Accurate HS code for sea cucumbers optimizes trade efficiency.
- Reduces customs delays and holds.
- Ensures proper duty rates and refunds.
- Supports trade statistics and compliance.
- Facilitates e-commerce shipments.
- Minimizes fines up to 100% of shipment value.
2025 Case Study: Sea Cucumber Export Success
A 2025 case study shows proper HS code use cut delays by 40% for Asian exporters.
Exporters to GCC adapted to 12-digit HS codes, avoiding reclassification fees. Source: WCO trade reports.
FAQ: HS Code for Sea Cucumbers 2025
What is the main HS code for sea cucumbers?
HS 0308.30 covers fresh sea cucumbers as aquatic invertebrates.
What HS code for dried bêche-de-mer in 2025?
Use HS 0308.19 for dried or processed sea cucumbers.
Are there 2025 changes to sea cucumber HS codes?
National changes like GCC 12-digit codes apply, no global WCO shift until 2027.
How do US HS codes differ for sea cucumbers?
US HTS uses 0308.30.0000 with stricter 2025 enforcement post-de minimis.
What is the EU HS code for sea cucumbers?
EU classifies under 0308 30 00 in the Combined Nomenclature.
Does processing change the HS code for sea cucumbers?
Yes, fresh is 0308.30; frozen/dried shifts to 0308.19.
Why use 12-digit HS codes in GCC for 2025?
For precise e-commerce tariff compliance starting Jan 1, 2025.
Is CITES required for sea cucumber HS codes?
Some species under Chapter 03 need CITES permits alongside HS classification.
How to verify HS code for sea cucumbers?
Consult WCO tools or national customs databases for 2025 updates.
Resources for HS Code Compliance
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