HS Code 0203

Fresh, Chilled or Frozen Pork

HS code 0203 covers meat of swine (pork) in fresh, chilled, or frozen states, subject to veterinary inspections and African Swine Fever restrictions.

4-digit Section IReefer

HS Code 0203 — Fresh, Chilled or Frozen Pork

This code covers the meat of domestic or wild swine. It includes all major cuts like hams, shoulders, and bellies, whether they are fresh, chilled, or frozen. It is the primary code for the international pig meat trade.

What's included

  • Fresh pork carcasses
  • Frozen pork belly
  • Chilled pork hams
  • Boneless pork loins

What's excluded

  • Edible pork offal → use 0206 (Offal (hearts, livers, etc.) is classified under 0206.)
  • Pork fat (not lean meat) → use 0209 (Pig fat free of lean meat is under 0209.)

Common examples

  • Frozen pork shoulder for processing
  • Chilled pork loin for retail
  • Fresh pig carcasses
  • Frozen pork hams (bone-in)

Frequently asked questions

Can I import pork into Muslim-majority countries?

Most Muslim-majority countries have strict prohibitions or very specific licensing requirements for the import of pork products.

Trade & shipping notes

  • Typical duty range: 0% - 25%
  • Documentation: Veterinary certificates must confirm the origin area is free from restricted swine diseases.
  • Typical shipping mode: Reefer
  • Top exporters: Spain, United States, Germany, Denmark
  • Top importers: China, Japan, Mexico, South Korea

Key takeaway

Pork trade is highly sensitive to animal disease outbreaks (like ASF) which can lead to instant trade bans.

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