1604.11.20 - In oil, in airtight containers

This HTS category, 1604.11.20, specifically classifies salmon that has been prepared or preserved and is packed in oil within airtight containers. This designation applies to whole fish or pieces of salmon that have undergone preservation methods suitable for long-term storage and are presented in a manner that excludes mincing. The primary characteristic for inclusion here is the combination of salmon, the specific preservation medium of oil, and the use of airtight packaging to maintain product integrity and shelf life.

In contrast to its sibling category, 1604.11.40 ("Other"), this subcategory is for salmon preserved *in oil* within airtight containers. The sibling category would encompass other methods of preparation or packaging not meeting the specific criteria of being in oil and in airtight containers, such as dry-packed or other forms of preservation not utilizing oil. Therefore, the presence of oil as a preservative and the nature of the packaging are the key differentiators.

Further subdivisions exist within this category to distinguish different types of salmon. The subcategories 1604.11.20.20 (Pink/Humpie), 1604.11.20.30 (Sockeye), and 1604.11.20.90 (Other) allow for a more granular classification based on the specific species of salmon. This allows customs authorities to track and categorize imports and exports with greater precision, reflecting the distinct market values and origins of these different salmon varieties when preserved in oil and packaged airtight.