HS 252220 Slaked lime
Quick Answer: HS code 252220 covers "Slaked lime," also known as calcium hydroxide. This product is a fine, white powder produced by hydrating quicklime, and it's widely used in construction (mortar, plaster), water treatment, agriculture (soil amendment), and various chemical processes. For importers and exporters, understanding the specific duty rates is crucial. In the UK, imports of slaked lime face a 0.00% duty rate. The EU applies a 1.70% ad valorem duty. For the US, the duty rate is 0.3¢/kg, including the weight of the container, with a "Free" designation often indicating eligibility for preferential treatment under various trade agreements. Importers should verify origin and eligibility for any applicable free trade agreements to potentially reduce or eliminate duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2522200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2522200000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2522200000 | 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 252220 cover?
This subheading covers slaked lime, also known as calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), which is produced by adding water to quicklime (calcium oxide). The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2522 explicitly define "slaked lime" as calcium hydroxide, distinguishing it from quicklime (calcium oxide) and hydraulic lime. This classification is consistently applied across major customs territories, including the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system, where 2522.20.00 specifically denotes slaked lime in powder or granular form, used in various industrial applications such as water treatment, construction, and agriculture.
What falls outside HS 252220?
The following products are excluded from HS 252220: quicklime (calcium oxide), which is classified under HS 252210, and hydraulic lime, which falls under HS 252230. Furthermore, chemically pure calcium hydroxide, often used in laboratory settings or specific pharmaceutical applications, is generally classified under Chapter 28, specifically HS 282590 ("Other inorganic bases; other metal oxides, hydroxides and peroxides"). Mixtures containing slaked lime but with added binders or other materials that alter its fundamental character, such as prepared building mortars or plasters, would be classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 38 or Chapter 68, depending on their composition and intended use.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 252220?
A common error is misclassifying quicklime (calcium oxide) as slaked lime, or vice versa, due to a lack of understanding of the chemical distinction between CaO and Ca(OH)2. Another frequent mistake involves classifying chemically pure calcium hydroxide under 252220, when its purity level and specific use dictate classification under Chapter 28, as per General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1 and the Chapter Notes. Importers sometimes also incorrectly classify mixtures containing slaked lime, failing to recognize that the addition of other substances can shift the product's essential character, necessitating classification under a different heading or chapter, often leading to incorrect duty assessments and potential penalties.
How should importers classify products under HS 252220?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 252220 involves first confirming the chemical composition to ensure the product is indeed calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and not quicklime (CaO) or hydraulic lime. Importers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) from the supplier to verify the chemical identity and purity. If the product is chemically pure calcium hydroxide, a review of Chapter 28 notes is necessary. For mixtures, the essential character must be determined, potentially leading to classification outside Chapter 25. Customs brokers should apply GRI 1, referencing the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2522, and consult official tariff schedules like the HTSUS or EU TARIC to ensure accurate and compliant classification.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 2522.20 ('Slaked lime') in major markets?
Import duty rates for HS 2522.20 can vary significantly by importing country and origin. For instance, under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) classified under 2522.20.00.00 is 'Free' (0.00% ad valorem). In contrast, the EU TARIC database might show an MFN duty rate of 1.70% ad valorem for certain origins. Other countries may apply specific duties, such as '0.3¢/kg, including weight of container'. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most accurate and up-to-date information based on the precise origin and destination.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Slaked lime' under HS 2522.20, and how is it distinguished from other lime products?
HS code 2522.20 specifically covers 'Slaked lime' (calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2). The primary classification criterion is the chemical composition and state of the lime. Slaked lime is produced by adding water to quicklime (calcium oxide, CaO), a process known as slaking. It is distinguished from quicklime (HS 2522.10) by its hydrated form and from hydraulic lime (HS 2522.30) by its non-hydraulic properties (i.e., it does not harden under water). The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes for Chapter 25 provide further guidance, emphasizing that slaked lime typically appears as a fine white powder. Laboratory analysis may be required to confirm the chemical composition and differentiate it from other calcium compounds.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for 'Slaked lime' (HS 2522.20)?
Many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade programs can offer reduced or 'Free' duty rates for HS 2522.20, provided the product meets the relevant Rules of Origin. For example, imports into the United States from countries with which it has an FTA (e.g., USMCA for Canada/Mexico, CAFTA-DR, KORUS) may qualify for a 'Free' duty rate. Similarly, imports into the EU from GSP beneficiaries or FTA partners could also benefit from preferential tariffs. Importers must ensure they have the correct documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential treatment. It is crucial to verify the specific agreement's product-specific rules of origin for HS 2522.20, as these can vary.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing 'Slaked lime' under HS 2522.20?
Standard import documentation for HS 2522.20 'Slaked lime' generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. Depending on the importing country and specific end-use, additional documentation may be required. For instance, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is often necessary for chemical products to comply with health and safety regulations. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, EUR.1, GSP Form A) is mandatory. Importers should also be aware of any potential environmental or chemical registration requirements specific to the destination country.