Canned Eel in Oil
Canned eel packed in vegetable oil is a shelf-stable preserved product made from cooked eel chunks. Classified under HTS 1604.17.80.00 as 'other' prepared eels in pieces, not fitting liver, skin, or specific packaging subheadings. Popular in Asian and Mediterranean markets as a ready-to-eat protein.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If packed in containers weighing ≤4.5 kg each
Specific weight-based subheadings apply to retail-sized containers of prepared eels.
If made from patties of fish meat including eel
Patty-form products are classified separately under subheading 1604.20.
If raw or simply chilled eel pieces
Unprepared or minimally processed eels remain in Chapter 3 fresh fish headings.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Provide commercial invoice detailing oil type and net weight to prevent undervaluation disputes
• Comply with FDA seafood HACCP plans and low-acid canning records for safety
• Avoid common pitfall of incorrect country-of-origin labeling on multi-stage processed goods
Related Products under HTS 1604.17.80.00
Smoked Eel Fillets
Smoked eel fillets are prepared eel meat that has been filleted, smoked for preservation, and packed in vacuum-sealed pouches. This product falls under HTS 1604.17.80.00 as prepared or preserved eels in pieces, not minced, and not specifically covered by other subheadings like livers or skins. It is a delicacy often used in sushi or European cuisine.
Oil-Poached Eel Steaks
Oil-poached eel steaks are thick cuts of eel meat cooked in oil and vacuum-packed for preservation. This fits HTS 1604.17.80.00 as other prepared eel pieces, not minced or whole. Commonly used in gourmet dishes like unagi donburi.
Grilled Eel Flakes
Grilled eel flakes are thinly shredded eel meat lightly grilled and dried for preservation. Fits HTS 1604.17.80.00 as other non-minced eel pieces. Used as topping for rice bowls or salads.
Herb-Infused Eel Strips
Herb-infused eel strips are long eel meat strips infused with rosemary and garlic, then sterilized. Classified HTS 1604.17.80.00 as other preserved eel in pieces. Suited for charcuterie or pasta.
Teriyaki Eel Bites
Teriyaki eel bites are small eel portions glazed in teriyaki sauce and retort-pouched. HTS 1604.17.80.00 covers these as other prepared eel pieces. Ready-to-heat snack popular in Japan.
Smoked Eel Medallions
Smoked eel medallions are round-cut eel slices cold-smoked for flavor and preservation. Under HTS 1604.17.80.00 as other eel pieces. High-end product for canapés.