0304.53.00.30 - Hake

This HTS category specifically classifies fresh or chilled fish meat, including fillets, originating from the families Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae, and Muraenolepididae, with a particular focus on Hake. Hake is a commercially important white fish known for its mild flavor and flaky texture. This classification is distinct from other entries within the "Other, fresh or chilled" heading by its precise identification of the fish species families and the specific inclusion of Hake.

Within this group, this particular code, 0304.53.00.30, is reserved solely for Hake. It is important to distinguish this from closely related sibling categories such as Cod (0304.53.00.10), Haddock (0304.53.00.20), and Pollock (0304.53.00.25). While all these fish fall under the broader umbrella of the Gadidae family and are often processed similarly, their distinct biological classifications necessitate separate HTS codes for accurate trade tracking and tariff application. The "Other" sibling category (0304.53.00.90) serves as a catch-all for any other qualifying fish from the listed families not specifically enumerated.

As this is a leaf node in the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. The classification of Hake under 0304.53.00.30 is therefore the most granular level for this particular product in its fresh or chilled state, and its content must strictly adhere to the definition of Hake meat, whether in whole fillets or minced form. Any deviations in processing, such as freezing, or classification under different families would require re-evaluation against the broader HTS framework.