Pilchards in Oil
Pilchards are small, sardine-like fish that are preserved whole in cottonseed oil within airtight tins. They are classified under this tariff item as prepared fish, whole or in pieces, not minced, and not specifically named elsewhere in heading 1604. The oil packing is a method of preservation that qualifies them as a prepared product.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | 7% | — | 7% |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | 7% | — | 7% |
| 🇺🇸United States | 7% | — | 7% |
| 🇩🇪Germany | 7% | — | 7% |
| 🇯🇵Japan | 7% | — | 7% |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the product is specifically sardines, sardinella, or brisling or sprats
These fish have their own subheading 1604.13, which is more specific than the 'other' basket item.
If the pilchards are minced or ground
Minced fish preparations fall under subheading 1604.20.
If the pilchards are simply frozen and not further prepared
Frozen fish, not prepared or preserved, is classified in Chapter 3.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Confirm the species name (e.g
• Sardinops sagax) on your documentation, as some pilchard species may have different classifications
• The CBSA may require a health certificate for fish products
• Ensure the tins are properly labelled with the country of origin and the preserving medium
Related Products under Tariff item 1604.19.90
Alaska Pollock Natural Pack Cans
Alaska pollock natural pack cans are prepared fish products consisting of whole or pieces of Alaska pollock (Theragra chalcogramma) packed in natural juice within airtight cans, without the addition of oil. They fall under tariff item 1604.19.90 as 'Other' prepared or preserved fish, whole or in pieces but not minced, not elsewhere specified.
Anchovies in Olive Oil
Whole salted anchovies preserved in premium olive oil in airtight glass jars, used in Mediterranean cuisine. This product is classified under tariff item 1604.19.90 as other fish, whole or in pieces, not minced.
Atlantic Mackerel in Oil
Pieces of Atlantic mackerel preserved in soybean oil in hermetically sealed cans. This product falls under tariff item 1604.19.90 as other fish, whole or in pieces, not minced.
Battered Yellowtail Fillets
Battered yellowtail fillets are frozen, uncooked portions coated in batter, intended for oven or air-fryer preparation. They are classified under this tariff item as prepared fish, whole or in pieces, not minced, as the batter coating is a preparation process. They are not cooked and do not contain oil, distinguishing them from other preserved fish products.
Bonito Flake Soup Base Cans
Bonito flake soup base cans contain dried bonito flakes (katsuobushi) prepared as a soup base, packed dry in airtight containers without oil. These are prepared or preserved fish products, whole or in pieces but not minced, falling under tariff item 1604.19.90 as 'Other' fish preparations.
Bonito Flakes Premium Oil-Packed
High-grade katsuobushi bonito flakes in pure sesame oil, tin-sealed for authenticity in sushi preparation. This product falls under tariff item 1604.19.90 as prepared bonito, whole or in pieces but not minced, not specifically named elsewhere.