HS 252010 Gypsum; anhydrite
Quick Answer: HS code 252010 specifically covers natural gypsum and anhydrite, both forms of calcium sulfate. Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) is a soft sulfate mineral widely used in construction materials like plasterboard, cement, and agricultural soil amendments. Anhydrite (CaSO4) is the anhydrous form, also used in cement production and as a drying agent. For importers and exporters, a key consideration is the generally favorable duty treatment across major economies. The United Kingdom, European Union, and United States all apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate, or "Free," to products classified under 252010, as confirmed by the UK Trade Tariff, EU TARIC, and USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule respectively. This widespread duty-free status simplifies trade compliance from a tariff perspective, though other regulatory requirements, such as import declarations and potential environmental regulations, still apply.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2520100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2520100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2520100000 | Free | — | ["t"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 252010 cover?
This subheading covers natural gypsum and anhydrite, as defined by the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes for Heading 2520. Gypsum is a soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O), commonly found in evaporite deposits. Anhydrite is an anhydrous calcium sulfate (CaSO4), which is gypsum without the water content. Both minerals are typically imported in crude form, crushed, ground, or powdered, but not calcined or further processed beyond basic preparation for use in industries such as cement manufacturing, plaster production, and agriculture. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and EU TARIC system align with this WCO definition, encompassing these raw mineral forms.
What falls outside HS 252010?
The following products are excluded from HS 252010: calcined gypsum (plaster of Paris), which is classified under HS 252020 due to the heat treatment that alters its chemical structure and properties, making it distinct from the raw mineral. Similarly, gypsum products that have been further manufactured, such as gypsum boards, plaster blocks, or decorative articles made from gypsum, are classified in Chapter 68, specifically under headings like 6809. Waste gypsum from industrial processes, if not meeting the definition of natural gypsum, would also be excluded, potentially falling under waste classifications elsewhere in the tariff. These exclusions highlight the importance of the "crude" or "unprocessed" nature for classification within 252010.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 252010?
A common error is misclassifying calcined gypsum (plaster of Paris) under HS 252010 instead of the correct subheading 252020. This mistake often arises from a misunderstanding of the term "calcined," which refers to gypsum that has been heated to remove some or all of its water of crystallization, transforming it into a different product with distinct uses. Importers sometimes overlook this crucial processing step, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties. Another error involves classifying manufactured gypsum articles, such as wallboard, here, rather than in Chapter 68, violating General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which prioritizes specific descriptions over general ones, and GRI 6, which extends GRI 1-5 to subheadings.
How should importers classify products under HS 252010?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 252010 involves first verifying that the product is indeed natural gypsum or anhydrite and has not undergone calcination or further manufacturing beyond crushing, grinding, or powdering. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a detailed product description, including its chemical composition and any processing steps it has undergone. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2520 is crucial to confirm the scope. If there is any doubt regarding calcination, laboratory analysis may be necessary. Finally, cross-referencing with the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or EU TARIC system for specific national interpretations and binding rulings can provide definitive guidance, ensuring compliance and accurate duty assessment.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 2520.10 (Gypsum; anhydrite) in major markets?
For HS code 2520.10, 'Gypsum; anhydrite', the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are frequently 0.00% ad valorem in many significant importing economies. For instance, the United States (under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, HTSUS) applies a 'Free' rate for general imports. Similarly, the European Union (EU TARIC) and the United Kingdom (UK Trade Tariff) typically apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their country of import via the official tariff databases (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing gypsum and anhydrite under HS 2520.10?
HS code 2520.10 specifically covers 'Gypsum; anhydrite'. Gypsum is a soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O). Anhydrite is an anhydrous calcium sulfate (CaSO₄). The primary classification criterion is the chemical composition and mineralogical form. Both are naturally occurring minerals. This heading includes crude, unground, ground, or calcined gypsum or anhydrite. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 25 clarify that this heading covers these minerals whether or not dehydrated, but excludes plaster preparations (e.g., plaster of Paris) which are generally classified under HS 2520.20.
Are there any common trade agreements that offer preferential duty treatment for gypsum and anhydrite (HS 2520.10)?
Given that the MFN duty rate for HS 2520.10 is often 0.00% or 'Free' in many major markets, preferential trade agreements typically do not offer a further reduction in duty, as the rate is already at its lowest. However, these agreements can still be relevant for other aspects such as rules of origin, customs procedures, or non-tariff measures. For example, under agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or various EU Free Trade Agreements, while the duty rate remains 0.00%, compliance with origin rules may be necessary to formally claim 'Free' status and ensure smooth customs clearance. Importers should consult the specific agreement's text and origin rules if preferential treatment is being sought for other goods or if the MFN rate in their specific import country is not zero.
What documentation is typically required for importing gypsum and anhydrite under HS 2520.10?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS 2520.10. This typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration form specific to the importing country. While gypsum and anhydrite are generally not subject to extensive regulatory controls, importers should verify if any specific environmental, health, or safety certifications are required by the destination country's authorities, especially if the material is intended for specific industrial uses (e.g., construction materials, agriculture). A certificate of origin may be requested by customs, particularly if the goods are part of a statistical sampling or if there are concerns about anti-dumping or countervailing duties, though these are rare for this specific commodity.