HS 252329 Other
Quick Answer: HS code 2523.29, "Other," covers Portland cement that does not fall under the specific categories of white cement (2523.21) or other specified types. This typically includes grey Portland cement, which is the most common type used in construction for concrete, mortar, and grout. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 0.00% ad valorem rate, while the EU imposes a 1.70% ad valorem duty. For the US, the rate is $1.32 per tonne, including the weight of the container, and is currently Free under general trade provisions. These differences highlight the importance of verifying the specific tariff treatment based on the country of import to ensure accurate cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2523290000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2523290000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2523290000 | 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 252329 cover?
This subheading covers clinkers of Portland cement that are not white cement clinkers. Specifically, HS 2523.29 encompasses the intermediate product formed by sintering limestone and aluminosilicate materials at high temperatures, which is then ground with other additives to produce Portland cement. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2523 clarify that clinker is the primary constituent of cement, and this particular subheading captures all Portland cement clinkers other than the specific white variety classified under HS 2523.21. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system align with this scope, focusing on the non-white characteristic of the clinker.
What falls outside HS 252329?
The following products are excluded from HS 252329: white Portland cement clinkers, which are specifically classified under HS 2523.21 due to their distinct chemical composition and color. Furthermore, finished Portland cement, whether white or not, is classified under HS 2523.20, as it is a processed product ready for use, not the intermediate clinker form. Other types of cement, such as aluminous cement (HS 2523.30) or hydraulic cements not elsewhere specified (HS 2523.90), are also explicitly excluded, as they fall under different subheadings within Heading 2523 based on their specific chemical formulations and properties, even if they share some functional similarities.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 252329?
A common error is misclassifying white Portland cement clinker under HS 252329 instead of the correct HS 252321. This often occurs due to insufficient attention to the "other" descriptor in 252329, which specifically excludes the white variety. Another frequent mistake involves classifying finished Portland cement as clinker, failing to distinguish between the intermediate product (clinker) and the final product (cement). Importers sometimes overlook the critical difference in processing stage, leading to incorrect application of General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates classification according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, and GRI 6, which applies the same principles to subheadings.
How should importers classify products under HS 252329?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 252329 involves a meticulous review of the product's physical characteristics and processing stage. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is indeed clinker, not finished cement, and then verify that it is not white Portland cement clinker. This requires examining material safety data sheets (MSDS), production specifications, and chemical analyses to confirm the absence of specific whiteness-enhancing additives or processes. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2523 is crucial, along with cross-referencing the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and EU TARIC for any specific national or regional interpretative rulings that might impact classification, ensuring compliance with GRI 1 and GRI 6.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS 2523.29, 'Other Portland cement,' in key markets?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2523.29 vary by importing country. For example, the United States (USITC) generally applies a 'Free' rate for goods classified under HTSUS 2523.29.00. The European Union (TARIC) typically applies a duty rate of 1.70% ad valorem for goods under CN code 2523 29 00. The UK Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a 1.70% ad valorem rate for commodity code 2523 29 00 00. Importers should always verify the current rates with the official tariff schedule of the destination country, as rates can be subject to change or specific trade policy measures.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Other Portland cement' under HS 2523.29, and how does it differ from 2523.21?
HS code 2523.29 specifically covers 'Other Portland cement,' distinguishing it from 2523.21, which is for 'White cement, whether or not artificially coloured.' The primary classification criterion for all Portland cements under heading 2523.2 is their chemical composition and hydraulic properties, as defined by international standards (e.g., ASTM C150, EN 197-1). 'Other Portland cement' encompasses all Portland cements that do not meet the specific criteria for white cement, such as grey Portland cement, high early strength Portland cement, or moderate sulfate resistant Portland cement, provided they are not otherwise specified in a more specific subheading. Importers should ensure their product's technical specifications and chemical analysis align with the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 25 and relevant national classification rulings.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for 'Other Portland cement' (HS 2523.29) under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for HS 2523.29 under various free trade agreements (FTAs) or generalized system of preferences (GSP) schemes, provided the product meets the specific rules of origin. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), qualifying goods originating from Mexico or Canada would typically enter the U.S. duty-free. Similarly, goods originating from countries with an FTA with the EU (e.g., EU-Korea FTA, EU-Japan EPA) or the UK (e.g., UK-Japan CEPA) could benefit from reduced or zero duties. Importers must provide valid proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or an origin declaration, to claim preferential treatment. It is crucial to consult the specific trade agreement's text and the importing country's customs regulations for detailed origin requirements and applicable preferential rates.
What documentation is typically required for importing 'Other Portland cement' (HS 2523.29)?
Importers of 'Other Portland cement' under HS 2523.29 will generally need standard customs documentation, including a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration form. Additionally, depending on the importing country and specific regulations for construction materials, the following may be required: a certificate of analysis or technical data sheet confirming the cement's specifications and compliance with national standards (e.g., ASTM, EN, BS); a certificate of origin if claiming preferential duty rates; and, in some cases, import licenses or permits, especially if the product is subject to anti-dumping duties or specific quality controls. Customs brokers can provide specific guidance based on the origin and destination of the shipment.