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.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If processed into skinless, boneless fillets
Tilapia fillets, whether or not skinless or boneless, fall under heading 0304 as fish fillets, excluding whole or headed/gutted forms.
If in the form of pellets fit for human consumption
Pellets of tilapia agglomerated by compression or binder, suitable for human consumption, are classified under heading 0309 per chapter notes, not 0303.
If fresh or chilled, not frozen
Fresh or chilled tilapia excluding fillets is classified under heading 0302, while frozen forms move to heading 0303.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify species identification through documentation to confirm Oreochromis spp. as required by HTS; ensure compliance with FDA seafood HACCP regulations and import alerts on tilapia
• Obtain Certificate of Origin to qualify for preferential duties if sourced from FTA countries; watch for misclassification as fillets
Related Products under HTS 0303.23.00.00
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.
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.