HS 252210 Quicklime

Quick Answer: HS Code 252210 covers quicklime, also known as calcium oxide, a white, caustic, alkaline crystalline solid at room temperature. It is produced by calcining (heating) limestone and is widely used in steelmaking, water treatment, agriculture, and construction. For importers and exporters, understanding the specific duty rates is crucial. In the UK, quicklime typically faces a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate. The EU applies a 1.70% ad valorem duty. For the United States, the duty rate is 0.2¢/kg, including the weight of the container, and is often classified as "Free" under various trade agreements. Importers should verify eligibility for preferential tariffs to optimize landed costs.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2522100000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2522100000 1.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2522100000 Free — ["kg"]

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 252210 cover?

This subheading covers quicklime, which is chemically known as calcium oxide (CaO). Quicklime is obtained by calcining (heating) limestone (calcium carbonate) to a high temperature, typically above 825°C, which drives off carbon dioxide. As defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2522, quicklime is an anhydrous, white, caustic, alkaline crystalline solid. It is primarily used in steelmaking, water treatment, and as a building material ingredient. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC system both align with this WCO definition, specifically identifying quicklime as the product of calcined limestone.

What falls outside HS 252210?

The following products are excluded from HS 252210: hydraulic lime, which is classified under HS 252220, and slaked lime (calcium hydroxide), which falls under HS 252230. Hydraulic lime contains impurities that allow it to set and harden underwater, distinguishing it from pure quicklime. Slaked lime is produced by adding water to quicklime, resulting in a different chemical composition and distinct properties. Furthermore, limestone itself, prior to calcination, is classified under HS 2521. Calcined dolomite, while similar in processing, is classified under HS 251820, as it is a different mineral composition.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 252210?

A common error is misclassifying quicklime as hydraulic lime (252220) or slaked lime (252230) due to a lack of understanding of the specific chemical processes and resulting compositions. Importers sometimes confuse quicklime with other calcined minerals, such as calcined dolomite (251820), which requires careful attention to the chemical analysis of the product. Another mistake involves classifying quicklime that has absorbed some moisture and partially converted to slaked lime, but still predominantly remains quicklime, under the wrong subheading. Proper classification relies on the product's primary chemical identity and the degree of processing, as per General Interpretative Rule 1 and 6.

How should importers classify products under HS 252210?

The correct procedure for classifying quicklime involves first confirming the product's chemical composition as predominantly calcium oxide (CaO), obtained through the calcination of limestone. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a certificate of analysis or a technical data sheet from the manufacturer, clearly stating the chemical purity and the manufacturing process. This documentation helps distinguish quicklime from hydraulic lime, slaked lime, or other calcined materials. Reference to the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2522 is crucial, along with consulting the specific national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS or EU TARIC) to ensure alignment with national interpretations and any supplementary notes. If uncertainty persists, a binding tariff information (BTI) ruling from the relevant customs authority is recommended.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 252220 HS 252230 HS 252310 HS 252010 HS 250810 HS 251810

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for Quicklime (HS 2522.10) in major markets?

The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for Quicklime (HS 2522.10) can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a 'Free' rate for goods classified under HTSUS 2522.10.00.00, as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. In contrast, some other jurisdictions might apply ad valorem rates, such as 1.70%, or specific duties, like 0.2¢/kg (including the weight of the container), or even remain at 0.00%. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the EU TARIC for European Union member states or the UK Trade Tariff for the United Kingdom, to determine the precise MFN duty rate applicable at the time of importation.

What are the key classification criteria for Quicklime under HS 2522.10, and how is it distinguished from other lime products?

Quicklime, classified under HS 2522.10, refers specifically to calcium oxide (CaO), which is obtained by calcining limestone or other calcium carbonate materials. The primary classification criterion is its chemical composition and the manufacturing process. It is distinguished from slaked lime (calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2), which falls under HS 2522.20, and hydraulic lime (HS 2522.30), which contains silicates and aluminates that allow it to set and harden under water. Quicklime is characterized by its high reactivity with water (exothermic reaction) and its primary use in steelmaking, chemical processes, and environmental applications. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 25 provide further guidance on the precise chemical and physical characteristics that define quicklime for classification purposes.

Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for Quicklime (HS 2522.10)?

Quicklime (HS 2522.10) can often benefit from preferential duty rates under various free trade agreements (FTAs) or generalized system of preferences (GSP) schemes, provided the product meets the respective rules of origin. For instance, imports into the United States from countries party to agreements like USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), or various bilateral FTAs often qualify for a 'Free' preferential rate. Similarly, the EU has numerous FTAs (e.g., with Canada, Japan, South Korea) and GSP schemes that could reduce or eliminate duties on quicklime. Importers must ensure they have the correct documentation, such as a certificate of origin (e.g., EUR.1, NAFTA Certificate of Origin, or a self-certification statement), to claim these preferential rates. Verification of the specific agreement's product-specific rules of origin for HS 2522.10 is crucial.

What specific documentation is typically required for importing Quicklime (HS 2522.10)?

Beyond standard customs documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importing Quicklime (HS 2522.10) may require additional specific documents. For claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration is essential. Due to its nature, safety data sheets (SDS) are often required by regulatory bodies for hazardous materials handling and transportation, even if not strictly a customs requirement for entry. Depending on the end-use or specific national regulations, some countries might require permits or certifications related to environmental protection or industrial safety. Importers should consult the importing country's customs authority and relevant regulatory agencies (e.g., EPA in the US, REACH in the EU) to ensure full compliance.