HS 251690 Other monumental or building stone
Quick Answer: HS code 251690 covers "Other monumental or building stone," encompassing various natural stones not specifically classified elsewhere in heading 2516, such as slate, quartzite, and other calcareous stones, whether merely cut or sawn. For importers and exporters, understanding the duty landscape is crucial. The UK and EU apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate, as per the UK Trade Tariff and EU TARIC, respectively. In contrast, the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) shows more varied rates, including 3.0% ad valorem for general imports, 50% for certain specific products, and "Free" for goods originating from countries with preferential trade agreements (e.g., under GSP, FTAs like US-Korea, US-Chile). Importers should verify specific product classifications and origin to leverage preferential rates where applicable.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2516900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2516900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25169000 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 2516900060 | — | — | ["t"] |
| 2516900030 | — | — | ["t"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 2516.90?
Imports of Other monumental or building stone may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 251690 cover?
This subheading covers monumental or building stone other than granite (251611, 251612) and sandstone (251620), specifically encompassing a diverse range of natural stones used for construction and decorative purposes. According to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) for Heading 2516, this includes stones such as porphyry, basalt, quartzite, and other similar hard stones, whether merely cut or otherwise worked, but not further than roughly trimmed or cut into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC further define this scope to include raw or roughly worked stone intended for monuments, buildings, paving, or other architectural applications, provided they retain their natural character and have not undergone significant manufacturing processes beyond basic shaping.
What falls outside HS 251690?
The following products are excluded from HS 251690: granite, which is specifically classified under 251611 (crude or roughly trimmed) or 251612 (merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape), and sandstone, classified under 251620. Additionally, stones that have been further worked beyond simple cutting or shaping into blocks or slabs, such as polished tiles, carved statues, or intricate architectural elements, are generally excluded from Heading 2516 and would typically fall under Chapter 68, specifically headings like 6802 for worked monumental or building stone and articles thereof. Artificial stone or agglomerated stone, even if resembling natural stone, is also excluded and classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 68.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 251690?
A common error is misclassifying granite or sandstone under 251690, despite their specific subheadings (251611, 251612, and 251620, respectively). Importers sometimes overlook the precise distinctions within Heading 2516, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential compliance issues. Another frequent mistake involves classifying stone that has undergone significant processing, such as polishing, chamfering, or intricate carving, under 251690. According to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, the classification must be determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Stone that has been worked beyond simple cutting into blocks or slabs is considered "worked monumental or building stone" and falls under Heading 6802, not 2516, which is reserved for raw or roughly worked stone.
How should importers classify products under HS 251690?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 251690 involves a meticulous review of the stone's type and the extent of its processing. Importers and customs brokers should first identify the specific geological type of stone (e.g., basalt, porphyry, quartzite) to confirm it is neither granite nor sandstone. Next, they must ascertain the degree of working the stone has undergone. If the stone is crude, roughly trimmed, or merely cut into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape, and is not granite or sandstone, then 251690 is likely appropriate. Always consult the WCO HS Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC for precise definitions and rulings. When in doubt, obtaining a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US) is the most prudent course of action to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS code 251690 in the United States, and are there any preferential rates available?
For Harmonized System (HS) code 251690, covering 'Other monumental or building stone,' the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate into the United States is Free (0.00%) ad valorem. This rate applies to goods from countries with which the U.S. has normal trade relations. Additionally, preferential duty rates are available under various U.S. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and trade preference programs, often resulting in a Free (0.00%) rate. These include, but are not limited to, imports from Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Dominican Republic (D), El Salvador (E), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and others. Importers should consult the latest U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) via the USITC website for the most current and specific preferential program eligibility and requirements.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Other monumental or building stone' under HS 251690, and how does it differ from other stone classifications?
HS code 251690 specifically covers 'Other monumental or building stone,' which includes stones like porphyry, basalt, sandstone, and other similar stones not specifically enumerated in subheadings 2516.11, 2516.12, 2516.20 (granite, sandstone, other calcareous monumental or building stone). The primary classification criteria revolve around the stone's geological type and its intended use as monumental or building stone. This means the stone must be suitable for construction, ornamentation, or memorial purposes, whether in rough, roughly trimmed, or merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape. Stones that are further worked (e.g., carved, polished beyond simple cutting, or shaped into specific articles) may fall into Chapter 68 (e.g., worked monumental or building stone, articles thereof), while crushed or agglomerated stone for road-making or concrete aggregates would typically fall under other headings like 2517. Importers must accurately identify the geological type and the extent of processing to ensure correct classification.
What documentation is typically required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for imports of monumental or building stone under HS 251690?
For imports of monumental or building stone under HS 251690 into the U.S., standard import documentation is required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the goods, value, and parties involved; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. If claiming a preferential duty rate under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, or a similar document for other FTAs) is mandatory to substantiate the claim. While not always required for all stone types, importers should be prepared to provide geological reports or specifications if there are questions regarding the stone's composition or classification. It is advisable for importers to work with a licensed customs broker to ensure all necessary documentation is accurately prepared and submitted to facilitate smooth customs clearance.
Are there any specific trade agreements that offer preferential duty treatment for HS 251690, and what are the implications for importers?
Yes, numerous U.S. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) offer preferential duty treatment for goods classified under HS 251690, typically resulting in a Free (0.00%) duty rate. Key agreements include the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), agreements with Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic-Central America (CAFTA-DR), Israel, Jordan, Korea, Morocco, Oman, Panama, Peru, and Singapore. For importers, the implication is a significant cost saving on import duties, enhancing competitiveness. To qualify for these preferential rates, goods must meet the specific Rules of Origin outlined in the respective trade agreement. This often involves the stone being wholly obtained or produced in the FTA partner country. Importers must maintain accurate records and provide a valid Certificate of Origin or equivalent declaration to CBP upon request to substantiate the claim for preferential treatment. Failure to meet origin requirements or provide proper documentation can result in the assessment of the MFN duty rate and potential penalties.