HS 252230 Hydraulic lime
Quick Answer: HS Code 252230 covers "Hydraulic lime," a specialized binder used in construction, particularly for mortars and renders, that sets by hydration and hardens underwater. Unlike ordinary lime, it contains silicates and aluminates, giving it hydraulic properties. Importers and customs brokers should note varying duty rates: the UK Trade Tariff applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty. The EU TARIC system levies a 1.70% ad valorem duty. For the United States, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) imposes a duty of 0.2¢/kg, including the weight of the container, with a "Free" status often indicating eligibility for preferential trade agreements. Accurate classification is crucial to avoid discrepancies and ensure compliance with these differing national tariffs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2522300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2522300000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2522300000 | 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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 252230 cover?
This subheading covers hydraulic lime, which is a binder obtained by calcining limestone containing clay impurities, resulting in a product that hardens both in air and under water. As defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2522, hydraulic lime is distinct from quicklime and slaked lime due to its hydraulic properties. It is primarily used in construction for mortars and renders, particularly in damp environments or for masonry that will be submerged. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this definition, classifying hydraulic lime based on its chemical composition and hydraulic setting characteristics.
What falls outside HS 252230?
The following products are excluded from HS 252230: quicklime (calcium oxide) and slaked lime (calcium hydroxide), which are classified under HS 252210 and HS 252220 respectively. Quicklime is obtained by calcining pure limestone and reacts vigorously with water, while slaked lime is quicklime that has been hydrated. Furthermore, cement, even hydraulic cement, is excluded and classified under Chapter 25, specifically Heading 2523, due to its distinct manufacturing process and performance characteristics. Plasters based on calcium sulphate, such as gypsum plaster, are also excluded and found in Heading 2520, as they are chemically different from lime products.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 252230?
A common error is confusing hydraulic lime with other types of lime or even cement, leading to misclassification. Importers sometimes incorrectly classify hydraulic lime as quicklime (252210) or slaked lime (252220) if they do not adequately understand the chemical distinctions and hydraulic properties. Another frequent mistake involves classifying hydraulic lime as hydraulic cement (2523), particularly when its primary use is in construction and it exhibits hydraulic setting. Proper classification requires careful attention to the product's specific chemical composition, manufacturing process, and performance characteristics, adhering to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes.
How should importers classify products under HS 252230?
The correct procedure for classifying hydraulic lime involves a thorough review of the product's technical specifications, including its chemical analysis and hydraulic properties. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a certificate of analysis or a technical data sheet from the manufacturer, clearly indicating that the product is hydraulic lime and not quicklime, slaked lime, or cement. This documentation should confirm the presence of clay impurities and the ability to harden underwater. Cross-referencing these details with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2522 and the specific national tariff schedules (e.g., HTSUS, EU TARIC) will ensure accurate classification under 252230. In cases of doubt, seeking a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority is advisable to mitigate compliance risks.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Hydraulic Lime (HS 2522.30) into the United States, and are there any preferential rates available?
For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for Hydraulic Lime (HS 2522.30) is Free (0.00% ad valorem) under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). This means that goods from countries with MFN status are not subject to customs duties. Preferential duty rates may also apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, imports from countries party to agreements like USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) would also typically be duty-free, provided all rules of origin are met. Importers should consult the latest HTSUS and specific FTA rules of origin to confirm eligibility for preferential treatment.
How is 'Hydraulic Lime' specifically defined for classification under HS 2522.30, and what are the key classification criteria to distinguish it from other lime products?
HS 2522.30 specifically covers 'Hydraulic lime.' According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, hydraulic lime is a type of lime that sets and hardens when mixed with water, even under water, due to its content of silicates and aluminates of calcium. Key classification criteria include its chemical composition and hydraulic properties. It is distinct from quicklime (HS 2522.10) and slaked lime (HS 2522.20), which are primarily calcium oxide and calcium hydroxide, respectively, and do not possess the same hydraulic setting properties. Importers should ensure their product's technical specifications, including chemical analysis (e.g., content of CaO, SiO2, Al2O3), clearly demonstrate its hydraulic characteristics to support classification under 2522.30. Misclassification could occur if the product is merely slaked lime or a non-hydraulic lime mixture.
What documentation is typically required by customs authorities for the import of Hydraulic Lime (HS 2522.30)?
Standard import documentation for Hydraulic Lime (HS 2522.30) generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration form. Additionally, customs authorities may request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to verify the product's chemical composition and ensure it aligns with the 'hydraulic lime' definition and any safety regulations. If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement, a Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate for EU imports) is mandatory. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or product data sheets if requested by customs to confirm the hydraulic properties of the lime.
What are the typical import duty rates for Hydraulic Lime (HS 2522.30) in the European Union and the United Kingdom, and how do trade agreements impact these rates?
For imports into the European Union, the Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) for Hydraulic Lime (HS 2522.30) is typically 0.00% ad valorem. Similarly, for the United Kingdom, the UK Global Tariff (UKGT) rate for HS 2522.30 is also 0.00% ad valorem. Both the EU and UK have extensive networks of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that ensure duty-free access for products originating from partner countries, provided the relevant rules of origin are met. For example, imports from countries with an FTA with the EU (e.g., Canada, Japan, South Korea) or the UK (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, many developing countries under GSP schemes) would generally be duty-free. Importers should verify the specific origin requirements and documentation (e.g., EUR.1, GSP Form A, or origin declaration) to claim preferential treatment.