0302.36.00.00 - Southern bluefin tunas (Thunnus maccoyii)

This HTS category, 0302.36.00.00, specifically classifies fresh or chilled Southern bluefin tunas, scientifically identified as *Thunnus maccoyii*. These tunas are distinguished by their geographic origin and biological characteristics, setting them apart from other tuna species listed under heading 0302.3. This classification applies to whole fish or those prepared in a manner that does not constitute fillets or other meat of heading 0304.

The primary distinction of this sub-heading lies in the specific species of tuna it covers. Unlike sibling categories such as Albacore (0302.31), Yellowfin (0302.32), Skipjack (0302.33), Bigeye (0302.34), or Atlantic and Pacific Bluefin tunas (0302.35), this category is exclusively for *Thunnus maccoyii*. Careful identification of the species is crucial for accurate classification, often relying on morphological characteristics and, in some cases, scientific documentation.

As a leaf node, there are no further subdivisions within this specific HTS code. Therefore, any fresh or chilled tuna meeting the description of Southern bluefin tuna (*Thunnus maccoyii*) will be classified directly under 0302.36.00.00. The scope of this classification is limited to the whole fish or fish not processed into fillets or other meat forms, adhering strictly to the definitions and exclusions outlined in Chapter 3 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule.