Mackerel Paste

Smooth paste made from steamed and pureed mackerel fillets with mild seasonings, popular in Scandinavian-style spreads. It is classified under HTS 1604.20.10.00 as a preserved fish paste. The processing into a homogeneous paste form distinguishes it from other preparations.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+35.0%35%
🇲🇽MexicoFree+10.0%10%
🇨🇦CanadaFree+10.0%10%
🇩🇪GermanyFree+10.0%10%
🇯🇵JapanFree+10.0%10%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

1604.12Lower: 10% vs 35%

If canned in oil or sauce rather than pure paste

Herrings, including mackerel relatives, in specific preparations use 1604.12.

1604.16Lower: 10% vs 35%

If sold as pâté with significant dairy or egg binders

Pâtés of fish are separately provided under 1604.16.

0305.51.00Same rate: 35%

If fillets are merely smoked without full paste processing

Smoked fish fillets remain in Chapter 3 as not fully prepared.

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Import Tips & Compliance

Obtain fishing vessel documentation if required for sustainability certifications

Test for heavy metals common in oily fish like mackerel to meet FDA import standards

Avoid bulk packaging that could be seen as industrial rather than consumer paste

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