HS Code 160417

Prepared and Preserved Whole Eels

HS code 160417 covers prepared or preserved whole or sliced eels, excluding minced versions, typically sold ready-to-eat in cans, jars, or vacuum packaging.

6-digit Section IVReefer

HS Code 160417 — Prepared and Preserved Whole Eels

This code applies to eels that have been cooked, smoked, marinated, or otherwise preserved. It specifically covers products where the fish remains whole or in recognisable fillet pieces rather than finely ground or minced.

What's included

  • Smoked eel fillets
  • Marinated grilled eel (Unagi)
  • Canned eel in oil
  • Jellied eels in jars

What's excluded

  • Minced eel → use 160420 (Minced or finely ground fish preparations are classified under a different subheading.)
  • Fresh or chilled eel → use 030192 (Unprocessed live or fresh fish belongs in Chapter 3.)

Common examples

  • Japanese style frozen seasoned grilled eel
  • Canned smoked eel in olive oil
  • Vacuum-packed kabayaki eel fillets

Frequently asked questions

Does this code include frozen raw eel?

No, raw frozen eel is classified in Chapter 3. This code is specifically for eels that have been cooked, marinated, or preserved beyond simple freezing.

Trade & shipping notes

  • Typical duty range: 5% - 20%
  • Documentation: Health certificates and CITES permits are often mandatory for European eel species (Anguilla anguilla).
  • Typical shipping mode: Reefer
  • Top exporters: China, Japan, Netherlands
  • Top importers: Japan, United States, South Korea

Key takeaway

Covers cooked or preserved eel fillets; watch for CITES export restrictions on specific eel species.

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