Meat of bovine animals; frozen (heading 0202): importing markets
Frozen beef (HS 0202) is one of the world's most traded meat products, worth over USD 30 billion annually. China, the United States, and South Korea are…
Published on 27 September 2026Updated on 27 September 2026
Frozen beef (HS 0202) is one of the world's most traded meat products, worth over USD 30 billion annually. China, the United States, and South Korea are the largest importers. Before exporting from Spain, you need to verify phytosanitary requirements, tariff rates by destination, and whether your buyer's country recognises EU health certificates.
Fact sheet
- Code
- 0202
- Chapter
- 02 · Meat and edible meat offal
- Subheadings
- 3
Main importing markets
USD · 2024| Country | Imports (USD) |
|---|---|
| China | 12,891,959,218 |
| United States | 6,530,120,179 |
| South Korea | 2,592,892,846 |
| Japan | 1,672,863,113 |
| Egypt | 1,029,845,648 |
| Indonesia | 835,707,459 |
| Malaysia | 805,753,121 |
| Israel | 757,160,000 |
| Canada | 726,823,504 |
| France | 726,613,089 |
| Saudi Arabia | 718,645,457 |
| Hong Kong SAR China | 710,417,063 |
| United Kingdom | 704,100,220 |
| Mexico | 694,782,426 |
| Philippines | 680,208,439 |
Imports declared by each country from the world. Countries report with a delay: the period is the latest with consolidated data.
Source: UN ComtradeData for 2024Verified on 22 September 2026
What you need to check before exporting frozen beef
Frozen beef falls under HS code 0202, which includes all bovine meat preserved by freezing. This code has three subheadings that distinguish products by cut and processing level. The specific subheading determines the tariff rate you will face in each destination market.
Tariff rates vary significantly by country and by trade agreement. The duty depends on whether your buyer is in the EU, has an FTA with the EU, or trades under Most Favoured Nation (MFN) terms. You can check the exact rate for each destination and subheading in Access2Markets, the European Commission's trade tool.
Health and safety rules are set by the importing country, not by the product code. Some markets recognise EU health certificates automatically; others require additional documentation, testing, or approval from their own food authority. Before quoting a price, confirm with your buyer's customs authority or a local import agent what documents they need.
Frozen beef is subject to cold chain requirements from the moment it leaves your facility. Any break in the cold chain can make the shipment unfit for import in most destinations. Your logistics partner must track temperature throughout transport and provide proof of compliance.
Payment and credit terms in beef trade are often shorter than in other sectors because of the perishable nature of the product. Many importers require payment on arrival or letter of credit, and some markets restrict import licences to certain companies or require advance registration.
Common questions
What tariff will I pay in the main markets?
Tariff rates depend on the subheading within HS 0202 and the country you are exporting to. Rates are not the same for China, the US, South Korea, or Egypt. Use Access2Markets to search by destination and subheading code; it shows the current duty, any seasonal rates, and whether an FTA applies. Bookmark this tool: you will need it for every quote.
Do all countries accept EU health certificates for frozen beef?
No. The EU and several trading partners (including the UK and some others under bilateral agreements) recognise each other's health certificates. Many countries outside these agreements require their own import permits, testing certificates, or approval from their food safety authority before shipment. Ask your buyer for their import requirements in writing before you sell.
What documents do I need to export frozen beef from Spain?
You need a commercial invoice, a packing list, a health certificate from the Spanish food authority (AEAT or regional equivalent), and a bill of lading or air waybill. Some destinations may ask for a certificate of origin, an export licence, or proof of cold chain compliance. The buyer's country may also require an import licence or pre-approval. Confirm the full list with your freight forwarder and your buyer's customs broker.
Why is cold chain so important?
Frozen beef must remain below −18 °C from your facility to the importer's warehouse. Any thawing and refreezing makes the product unfit for import in most countries and can cause it to be rejected or destroyed at the port. Your logistics partner must provide temperature logs for the entire journey. This is not optional: it is a legal requirement in all major markets.
Can I export directly to China, or do I need a distributor?
China imports frozen beef both directly from exporters and through distributors. However, not all Spanish exporting companies are registered with the Chinese food authority. Registration requires that your facility meets Chinese standards and passes inspection. If you are not yet registered, you can export through a registered Spanish exporter or a Chinese importer, or you can apply for registration. Check with ICEX or your regional export agency for the current process.
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