HS 252330 Aluminous cement

Quick Answer: HS code 252330 covers "Aluminous cement," also known as calcium aluminate cement or high-alumina cement. This specialized cement is primarily used in applications requiring high early strength, rapid hardening, and resistance to chemical attack, abrasion, and high temperatures, such as refractory concretes, sewer systems, and marine environments. For importers and exporters, understanding the specific duty rates is crucial. In the UK, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. The EU applies an MFN duty rate of 1.70% ad valorem. The US imposes a specific duty rate of $1.32 per tonne, including the weight of the container, with a "Free" rate often applicable under various trade agreements. Importers should verify eligibility for preferential rates to optimize landed costs.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2523300000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2523300000 1.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2523300000 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 252330 cover?

This subheading covers aluminous cement, also known as calcium aluminate cement or high-alumina cement. It is a hydraulic cement characterized by its rapid hardening, high early strength, and resistance to chemical attack and high temperatures, distinguishing it from ordinary Portland cement. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2523 explicitly include "aluminous cement" as a distinct type of cement. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this definition, classifying cements primarily composed of calcium aluminates under this specific subheading, reflecting its unique chemical composition and performance characteristics.

What falls outside HS 252330?

The following products are excluded from HS 252330: Portland cement (HS 252329), which is primarily composed of calcium silicates and has different performance characteristics. White cement, whether or not artificially colored, also falls under HS 252329 if it is a Portland cement. Furthermore, hydraulic limes (HS 2522) and plasters (e.g., gypsum plaster, HS 2520) are distinct products with different chemical compositions and uses, and are therefore classified elsewhere. Refractory mortars and concretes, even if containing aluminous cement, are generally classified under Chapter 38 or Chapter 68, depending on their form and specific composition, as they are prepared mixtures rather than raw cement.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 252330?

A common error is misclassifying aluminous cement as ordinary Portland cement under HS 252329 due to a general understanding of "cement" without considering the specific chemical composition. Importers sometimes overlook the distinct properties and manufacturing processes that differentiate aluminous cement from other hydraulic cements. This mistake often occurs when product descriptions are vague or when the chemical analysis, specifically the high alumina content, is not thoroughly reviewed. Proper classification requires adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, emphasizing the specific nature of "aluminous cement" as a distinct product.

How should importers classify products under HS 252330?

The correct procedure for classifying aluminous cement under HS 252330 involves several steps. First, importers and customs brokers must verify the product's chemical composition, specifically confirming a high alumina content (typically 35-80% Al2O3) and the presence of calcium aluminates as the primary hydraulic components. This information is usually available on the manufacturer's technical data sheet or material safety data sheet (MSDS). Second, cross-reference this information with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2523 and the specific definitions provided by the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. Finally, ensure that the product description on import documentation accurately reflects "aluminous cement" to avoid discrepancies and potential delays or penalties. Consulting with a customs expert or obtaining a binding ruling can further mitigate classification risks.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 252390 HS 252321 HS 252310 HS 252230 HS 251310 HS 252930

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

FAQ

What is 'Aluminous cement' under HS code 2523.30 and how is it distinguished from other cements?

HS code 2523.30 specifically covers 'Aluminous cement' (also known as calcium aluminate cement or high-alumina cement). This type of cement is primarily characterized by its high alumina content, typically exceeding 30% by weight, and its rapid hardening properties, high early strength, and resistance to chemical attack and high temperatures. It is distinguished from Portland cement (HS 2523.29) by its chemical composition, particularly the absence or very low content of calcium silicates, which are the main constituents of Portland cement. Importers and customs brokers should ensure that laboratory analysis or manufacturer's specifications clearly indicate the high alumina content to support classification under 2523.30, as per the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 25.

What are the typical import duty rates for HS 2523.30 'Aluminous cement' in major markets, and are there any specific duties or preferential rates?

Import duty rates for HS 2523.30 'Aluminous cement' vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For instance, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the United States (USITC HTSUS) is often 'Free' for this subheading. In contrast, the European Union (EU TARIC) might apply a specific duty, such as '$1.32/t, including weight of container' for certain origins, or '0.00 %' for others, depending on preferential agreements. The UK Trade Tariff also lists rates, which could be '0.00 %' or other ad valorem rates. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country. Preferential rates, such as those under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) like USMCA, EU-Japan EPA, or UK-Australia FTA, may allow for reduced or zero duties if the product meets the relevant Rules of Origin. It is crucial to verify the current rates and applicable trade agreements through official government tariff databases for the specific country of import and origin.

What documentation is required for the import of HS 2523.30 'Aluminous cement' and are there any specific regulatory considerations?

Standard import documentation for HS 2523.30 'Aluminous cement' typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. For preferential duty treatment under an FTA, a valid certificate of origin or origin declaration is mandatory. Beyond standard customs documents, importers should be aware of potential product-specific regulations. While 'Aluminous cement' generally falls under industrial materials, some countries may require specific technical data sheets or material safety data sheets (MSDS) to ensure compliance with local building codes, environmental regulations, or health and safety standards. For example, the EU's Construction Products Regulation (CPR) might require a Declaration of Performance (DoP) and CE marking for cement products placed on the market. Importers should verify any such requirements with the relevant national authorities or their customs broker prior to shipment.

How do trade agreements, such as the USMCA or EU FTAs, impact the import duties for 'Aluminous cement' under HS 2523.30?

Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for 'Aluminous cement' classified under HS 2523.30, provided the product meets the agreement's specific Rules of Origin. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), 'Aluminous cement' originating from Mexico or Canada and imported into the U.S. would typically be 'Free' of duty, assuming all origin requirements are met and properly documented. Similarly, the European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide (e.g., South Korea, Canada, Japan). If 'Aluminous cement' originates from an FTA partner country and fulfills the origin criteria, it may benefit from a '0.00 %' preferential duty rate upon import into the EU, instead of the MFN rate which could be a specific duty like '$1.32/t, including weight of container'. Importers must ensure they have the correct origin documentation (e.g., EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration) to claim these preferential rates, as failure to do so will result in the application of the higher MFN duty.