CN code 150420 covers fats and oils derived from fish, excluding fish liver oils classified under 150410. These products are obtained through pressing, solvent extraction, or rendering of fatty tissues from marine and freshwater fish species. The category includes sardine oil, herring oil, menhaden oil, salmon oil, and tuna oil. Classification requires that the product has not undergone chemical modification beyond refining – otherwise, it may be reclassified under heading 1516. Fish oils are widely used in the feed industry, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food sector as a source of omega-3 fatty acids. When importing, the fish species and extraction method should be specified, as this affects the applicable tariff rate and documentary requirements for customs clearance.

Importing fish oils into the European Union is governed by Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 on general food law and Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 on food hygiene. Oils intended for human consumption must comply with contaminant limits set in Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006, including maximum levels for dioxins, PCBs, and heavy metals. The country of origin must be listed among third countries approved for exporting fishery products to the EU, and the processing establishment must hold an EU approval number. A health certificate issued by the competent authority of the exporting country is required. Border controls are conducted at approved border control posts in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/625. Fish oils are also subject to IUU fishing regulation requirements regarding catch documentation.

Importers of fish oils should ensure full traceability covering fish species, catch area, and processing method. The customs declaration must include CN code 150420 with a product description matching TARIC nomenclature. It is advisable to check whether the country of origin benefits from tariff preferences under free trade agreements or the GSP scheme. Documents such as EUR.1 certificates or origin declarations on invoices may reduce customs duties. Labelling of fish oils intended for consumers must comply with Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on food information. Fish oils marketed as food supplements are additionally subject to national notification requirements – in many EU Member States, the competent food safety authority must be notified before placing a dietary supplement on the market.

Fish fats and oils under CN 1504 20 are a key raw material for omega-3 dietary supplement production (EPA and DHA). EU imports are subject to controls for heavy metals (mercury, cadmium), dioxins and PCBs. Regulation (EC) 1881/2006 sets maximum contaminant levels. Main suppliers are Peru, Chile and Scandinavian countries. Fish oil for food use must meet purification and refining standards. Demand for sustainably certified fish oils (MSC, IFFO RS) is growing across the EU market.