Frozen Sardinops sagax Pacific Sardines from Japan
Frozen Pacific sardines (Sardinops sagax) harvested from coastal waters, frozen whole for bulk export. Classified under HTS 0303.53.00.00 as they match the Sardinops spp. species in frozen whole form, not as fillets or processed pellets.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• Obtain commercial invoice specifying exact species (Sardinops sagax) and frozen whole condition to prevent reclassification
• Comply with US Customs fish import permits and temperature logs proving chain of custody from catch to import
• Watch for misdeclaration as fresh (HTS 0302) which incurs different duties and inspections