Frozen Hake Fillets

Merluccius species — the Southern Hemisphere hakes from Chile, Argentina, and Namibia — are the dominant commercial product and are classified under 0304741000 (frozen blocks) or the general 0304740000 line. Urophycis spp., the North American hakes (red hake, white hake), are specifically captured under 0304745000. Because both are marketed simply as 'hake,' importers must confirm the genus in supplier documentation to declare the correct tariff line.

Chile and Argentina's Merluccius fisheries operate on Southern Hemisphere seasonal cycles, with peak harvest typically in austral autumn and winter. This can create inventory timing considerations for US importers who rely on these origins, particularly when quota or fishing closures affect availability. Diversifying across Namibia or New Zealand — which have offset seasonal patterns — can help manage supply continuity.