0304.49.01.12 - Tilapia, other than Oreochromis spp.

This classification pertains to fresh or chilled fillets and other fish meat of "other fish" (fresh-water fish) that are not specifically enumerated at the 10-digit level. It encompasses a diverse range of fresh-water fish species that do not have their own distinct subheadings within the "other" category for fresh or chilled fillets. The key defining characteristic is that the fish is a fresh-water species and is presented as fillets or other meat, and it is not specifically listed under a more granular subheading.

This category is distinguished from its sibling categories by its residual nature. While Pike, Pickerel, and Whitefish are explicitly listed under specific subheadings (0304.49.01.03, 0304.49.01.06, and 0304.49.01.09 respectively), this subheading (0304.49.01.12) serves as a catch-all for any other fresh-water fish fillets or meat that do not fit into those narrower descriptions. It is important to note that tilapia, unless it is specified as belonging to a different species of tilapia not covered by Oreochromis spp., is classified under a separate, more specific subheading.

As this is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories within this particular HTS code. Therefore, classification into 0304.49.01.12 relies on accurately determining that the imported fish is indeed a fresh-water species, is presented as a fillet or other meat, and is not otherwise specifically enumerated at a more detailed level within the HTS. Importers must carefully consider the species of fish and its preparation to ensure correct classification.