Frozen Headed and Gutted Tilapia
Frozen tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) that has been headed and eviscerated but retains the body structure intact, excluding fillets. Classified under HTS 0303.23.00.00 for frozen tilapia not further processed into meat of heading 0304. Popular for Asian markets and aquaculture imports.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If cut into fillets or steaks
Any tilapia reduced to fillets, steaks, or other fish meat transfers to heading 0304, distinct from whole or partially processed frozen fish.
If cooked, prepared, or preserved
Prepared or preserved tilapia products, not just frozen whole, fall under Chapter 16 as prepared fish.
If including edible offal like livers or roes
Frozen tilapia offal for human consumption is classified in subheadings 0303.91-0303.99, separate from liverless whole fish.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Include detailed commercial invoice specifying processing state (headed/gutted) and species; comply with USDA APHIS for aquaculture products
• Test for antibiotics/residues common in tilapia imports; use refrigerated containers to maintain -18°C or below
Related Products under HTS 0303.23.00.00
Frozen Whole Tilapia Fillets Removed
Frozen tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) with heads, tails, and viscera removed but otherwise whole, excluding fish fillets of heading 0304. This product is classified under HTS 0303.23.00.00 as frozen tilapia not reduced to fillets or other fish meat. It is commonly imported for further processing or direct sale in markets.
Frozen Dressed Tilapia with Scales
Frozen whole tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) dressed by gutting but retaining scales, head, and tail, not filleted. Falls under HTS 0303.23.00.00 as frozen tilapia excluding fillets of 0304. Widely imported from China and Latin America for retail.
Frozen Whole Tilapia for Industrial Processing
Frozen unprocessed whole tilapia (Oreochromis spp.), including heads and viscera, destined for industrial filleting. HTS 0303.23.00.00 covers frozen tilapia excluding 0304 fillets. Bulk imports for foodservice and canning.
Frozen Tilapia Blocks 5kg
Frozen blocks of whole tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) weighing 5kg each, intact excluding fillets. Classified in HTS 0303.23.00.00 for frozen species-specific tilapia. Common in wholesale frozen seafood distribution.
Frozen Skin-On Tilapia Portions
Frozen tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) cut into skin-on portions but not fully filleted, retaining skeletal structure. Under HTS 0303.23.00.00 as not meeting 0304 fillet definition. Used in ethnic food markets.
IQF Frozen Whole Tilapia
Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) whole tilapia (Oreochromis spp.), ungutted. HTS 0303.23.00.00 for frozen tilapia excluding 0304 meat. Preferred for premium retail thawing.