0307.12.00 - Frozen

This HTS category, 0307.12.00, specifically classifies oysters that have undergone a freezing process. This encompasses all forms of oysters that are preserved by freezing, regardless of whether they are whole, shucked, or in pieces, as long as the primary preservation method is freezing. The key determinant for classification here is the frozen state of the product.

Distinguishing this category from its sibling, 0307.11.00, is crucial. While 0307.11.00 covers oysters in their live, fresh, or chilled states, 0307.12.00 is exclusively for those that have been frozen for preservation. The "Other" sibling category (0307.19.01) would typically encompass other preparations of oysters not falling into the live, fresh, chilled, or frozen classifications, such as dried or salted oysters.

Within the frozen oyster classification (0307.12.00), further subdivisions exist to provide greater specificity. The subcategories, 0307.12.00.60 (Farmed) and 0307.12.00.80 (Other), allow for a distinction based on the origin or cultivation method of the frozen oysters, reflecting potential trade or regulatory differences. This allows for more granular tracking and potential application of specific duties or regulations based on whether the frozen oysters were farm-raised or obtained through other means.