Meat of swine; fresh, chilled or frozen (heading 0203): importing markets
Code 0203 covers fresh, chilled or frozen pork. Global imports reached USD 27.7 billion in 2025, led by Japan, Mexico and Italy. Spain is a major pork…
Published on 27 September 2026Updated on 27 September 2026
Code 0203 covers fresh, chilled or frozen pork. Global imports reached USD 27.7 billion in 2025, led by Japan, Mexico and Italy. Spain is a major pork exporter: understanding subheadings, tariffs and destination requirements is essential before shipping.
Fact sheet
- Code
- 0203
- Chapter
- 02 · Meat and edible meat offal
- Subheadings
- 6
Main importing markets
USD · 2025| Country | Imports (USD) |
|---|---|
| Japan | 4,150,363,273 |
| Mexico | 3,854,355,714 |
| Italy | 3,043,784,718 |
| China | 2,093,943,709 |
| South Korea | 2,050,854,193 |
| Poland | 1,874,250,350 |
| Germany | 1,652,375,403 |
| United States | 1,515,417,386 |
| United Kingdom | 1,113,314,482 |
| Czechia | 1,008,637,304 |
| France | 995,718,590 |
| Romania | 992,396,772 |
| Greece | 756,203,502 |
| Philippines | 756,082,394 |
| Hong Kong SAR China | 670,302,308 |
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 2025Verified on 22 September 2026
What you need to know before exporting pork
Pork under HS 0203 is classified into six subheadings that determine tariffs and regulatory treatment. The subheading depends on whether the meat is whole carcass, cuts, offal, or salted, and the specific destination. Check the exact subheading before quoting.
Tariffs vary by destination and by trade agreement. The EU-bound tariff is set in TARIC; for third countries, each has its own rate under their agreements with Spain or the EU. Access2Markets lets you check the applicable tariff for any destination and any subheading.
Pork exports require health certification from Spain's competent authority, phytosanitary documentation, and compliance with cold chain requirements. Some destinations demand specific certificates of origin or sanitary protocols beyond EU standards: confirm these with your buyer and the importer's customs broker.
Japan, Mexico and Italy are the largest importers globally. Your destination determines logistics: frozen pork requires temperature-controlled containers; fresh or chilled pork has tighter transit windows. Plan cold chain costs into your pricing.
Common questions about pork exports
How do I know which subheading applies to my pork?
HS 0203 has six subheadings based on product form: whole carcass, half carcass, cuts with or without bone, offal, and salted or cured meat. Your product type determines the code. If you're unsure, describe the exact form and ask your logistics partner or customs broker to confirm before shipment.
Where do I check the tariff for my destination?
Use Access2Markets by entering the destination country and the six-digit subheading. It shows the applied tariff, any preferential rates under trade agreements, and required documentation. For EU destinations, check TARIC instead.
What health certificates do I need?
Spanish pork exports require a health certificate issued by the competent authority (usually regional or through your exporter's authority). Requirements vary by destination: some countries accept EU certificates; others demand additional sanitary protocols. Confirm requirements with your importer and their customs broker before shipping.
Do I need a certificate of origin?
Most destinations require proof of origin under trade agreements. If Spain has a preferential agreement with your destination, a certificate of origin may reduce tariffs. Your freight forwarder or customs broker handles this; include it in your shipping documents.
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