HS 030243

Fresh or Chilled Sardines, Sardinella, Brislings & Sprats

U.S. imports of fresh or chilled sardines, sardinella, brislings & sprats (HS 030243) totaled $7K in April 2026, traded with 2 countries.

Last updated: April 2026 data

Four closely related small pelagic species — Sardina pilchardus, Sardinops spp., Sardinella spp., and Sprattus sprattus (brislings/sprats) — are consolidated under a single US tariff line (0302430000) when imported fresh or chilled, excluding fillets, livers, and roes. Correct species identification at entry is important because common trade names (pilchards, sprats, brislings) do not always align neatly with the scientific names that govern classification. Canada is the leading supplier, with Spain and Portugal representing significant Atlantic European sources for this heading.

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Imports

$7K

from 2 countries · YTD: $15K

Exports: $0

Deficit of $7K (net importer)

Trade balance: deficit of $7K (net importer)

YTD: $15K imported (April 2026)

3 shipments/month

Top Import Sources

View all

1PORTUGAL$7K
100.0%
2SPAIN$0
0.0%

View all 2 trading partners

Import Trend (12 months)

Monthly import values over time

Geographic Breakdown

SHRIMPS AND PRAWNS, FROZEN, NESOI

HS 030617

$362.4M

PACIFIC, ATLANTIC, DANUBE SALMON FILLET FRESH/CHLL

HS 030441

$184.5M

PACIFIC, ATLANTIC AND DANUBE SALMON FILLETS FROZEN

HS 030481

$128.8M

ATLANTIC SALMON AND DANUBE SALMON FRESH OR CHILLED

HS 030214

$101.4M

LOBSTERS, LIVE, FRESH,OR CHILLED

HS 030632

$63.4M

FISH FILLETS, FROZEN, NESOI

HS 030489

$56.9M

Suppliers

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do 'pilchards' and 'sprats' fall under the same HTS heading as sardines?

Yes. The US schedule consolidates Sardina pilchardus, Sardinops spp., Sardinella spp., and Sprattus sprattus (brislings or sprats) under heading 030243. Importers using common trade names like 'pilchards' or 'sprats' should confirm the scientific species name on documentation to ensure correct classification under 0302430000.

What documentation is typically required for fresh sardine shipments entering the US?

Fresh or chilled fish require an FDA Prior Notice submission before arrival, a commercial invoice with species identification, country of origin, and net weight. Shipments may be subject to FDA examination. Importers should also verify whether the exporting country's processing facilities meet US food-safety standards. Consult a licensed customs broker for current entry requirements.