0304.57.00.00 - Rays and skates (Rajidae)

This HTS classification, 0304.57.00.00, specifically covers meat of rays and skates belonging to the family Rajidae. This includes fillets and other meat forms, whether fresh, chilled, or frozen, derived from these cartilaginous fish. The classification is positioned within the broader category of fish fillets and other fish meat, fresh, chilled, or frozen, and more narrowly within "Other, fresh or chilled" to denote species not specifically listed in preceding subheadings.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is crucial for accurate classification. While other subheadings at this level address specific fish families like Salmonidae (0304.52.00), Gadidae and its related families (0304.53.00), or individual species such as swordfish (0304.54.00.00) and toothfish (0304.55.00.00), this subheading is dedicated exclusively to rays and skates (Rajidae). It is also distinct from 0304.51.01, which enumerates a diverse group of freshwater and saltwater species.

As a leaf node within the HTS structure, 0304.57.00.00 has no further subcategories. Therefore, classification under this code relies on the definitive identification of the fish species as belonging to the Rajidae family. Importers and customs brokers must ensure that the meat in question originates from a ray or skate species to correctly utilize this specific tariff line, differentiating it from other types of fish meat that fall under different HTS codes.