Smelts — small, anadromous or freshwater forage fish prized in both foodservice and bait markets — are classified here when imported fresh or chilled in whole form, excluding fillets, livers, and roes. Their small body size means they are typically traded whole rather than filleted, making this line the primary classification point for commercial smelt imports. Seasonal availability tied to spawning runs can create concentrated import windows, and FDA entry review applies to all shipments.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
Smelts are traded in both forms, but the fresh/chilled and frozen presentations fall under different HTS headings. This line (0302895037) covers only fresh or chilled smelts; frozen smelts are classified under the corresponding frozen fish provisions in heading 0303. Confirming the temperature condition at time of import is essential for correct classification.
The line does not restrict by habitat — it covers smelts broadly, whether anadromous (e.g., rainbow smelt) or landlocked varieties, provided they are fresh or chilled and presented in whole or dressed form rather than as fillets. Species documentation is still advisable to support the classification and FDA entry review.
Imports
Imports
—YoY · free account
Low of 2 reported months · imports
Low · free accountFewer than 6 of the last 12 months reported trade, or the latest month was under $500K; the trend chart is not shown for thin series.
Through August 2026 · imports 2 of 12 months reported. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.
Statistical number 20 of 22 in subheading 030289
Imports · August 2026
origin
customs district
None recorded for this period.
destination
Census publishes state breakdowns to the 6-digit level only. See HS 030289 for those.
entry
Census publishes port breakdowns to the 6-digit level only. See HS 030289 for those.
rate provision · imports
None recorded for this period.
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