HS 252410 Crocidolite
Quick Answer: HS code 252410 specifically covers "Crocidolite," a fibrous blue asbestos mineral. This classification is crucial for identifying this particular form of asbestos, which is known for its hazardous health implications. Due to its carcinogenic properties, the international trade and use of crocidolite are severely restricted or outright banned in most countries. Consequently, the duty rates across major jurisdictions reflect this reality: the UK, EU, and US all apply a 0.00% or "Free" ad valorem duty rate. This reflects a policy of discouraging, rather than taxing, its import. Importers and customs brokers must be aware that while duties are zero, stringent import prohibitions, licensing requirements, and environmental regulations will almost certainly apply, making actual trade extremely rare and subject to strict governmental oversight for specific, authorized uses only (e.g., research, safe disposal).
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2524100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2524100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2524100000 | 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 252410 cover?
This subheading covers crocidolite, which is a specific type of asbestos, also known as blue asbestos. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as published by the World Customs Organization (WCO), Heading 2524 specifically encompasses asbestos. Subheading 252410 precisely identifies crocidolite, distinguishing it from other forms of asbestos. Importers referencing the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) or the EU TARIC system will find this classification consistently applied to raw or processed crocidolite, typically in fibrous form, intended for various industrial applications where its unique properties are utilized, subject to import restrictions in many jurisdictions.
What falls outside HS 252410?
The following products are excluded from HS 252410: other types of asbestos, such as chrysotile (white asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite, which are classified under HS 252490. Additionally, manufactured articles containing asbestos, such as asbestos-cement products (e.g., sheets, pipes, tubes, fittings) fall under Chapter 68, specifically Heading 6811. For instance, asbestos friction materials are classified under Heading 6813, and asbestos textiles or articles of asbestos textile are found in Chapter 68 as well, not within Chapter 25, which covers mineral products in their raw or semi-processed state.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 252410?
A common error is misclassifying other forms of asbestos as crocidolite, or vice versa, due to a lack of specific material identification. Importers might incorrectly assume all asbestos falls under a single subheading, neglecting the specific breakdown within Heading 2524. Another mistake involves classifying articles made from crocidolite under this raw material subheading, violating General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 2(b) which states that goods consisting of mixtures or combinations of different materials are to be classified according to the material or component which gives them their essential character, or GRI 3 for goods put up in sets. Proper laboratory analysis is often crucial to distinguish crocidolite from other asbestos types.
How should importers classify products under HS 252410?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 252410 involves first confirming that the product is indeed asbestos, falling under Heading 2524. Subsequently, it is imperative to precisely identify the specific type of asbestos. For crocidolite, importers and customs brokers should ensure that laboratory analysis or supplier documentation explicitly confirms the material as "crocidolite" or "blue asbestos." This specific identification is critical to correctly apply subheading 252410, rather than the residual subheading 252490 for "other asbestos." Always consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2524 and verify any import restrictions or prohibitions on asbestos in the destination country, such as those enforced by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or EU regulations.
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FAQ
What is 'Crocidolite' as classified under HS 2524.10?
Crocidolite, classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2524.10, refers specifically to blue asbestos. It is a fibrous mineral belonging to the amphibole group of silicates. The HS classification system distinguishes between different types of asbestos, with crocidolite being one of the more hazardous forms due to its fine, needle-like fibers. Importers should be aware that this classification is precise and does not include other forms of asbestos like chrysotile (HS 2524.90.00).
What are the typical import duty rates for Crocidolite (HS 2524.10) in major markets, and are there preferential rates?
For HS 2524.10 (Crocidolite), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are generally 0.00% ad valorem in many major importing economies. For example, the United States (USITC) applies a 0.00% MFN duty rate. Similarly, the European Union (EU TARIC) and the United Kingdom Trade Tariff also list a 0.00% MFN duty rate. Due to the 0.00% MFN rate, preferential trade agreements typically also result in a 'Free' or 0.00% duty rate, as there is no MFN duty to reduce further. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate for their destination country via official tariff databases.
Are there any specific documentation or regulatory requirements for importing Crocidolite (HS 2524.10)?
Yes, despite a 0.00% duty rate, the import of Crocidolite (HS 2524.10) is subject to stringent regulatory controls due to its hazardous nature. Many countries have outright bans or severe restrictions on the import, use, and processing of crocidolite and other forms of asbestos. Importers must comply with national environmental protection agencies (e.g., EPA in the US, ECHA in the EU) and health and safety regulations. This often includes requirements for import permits, prior informed consent (PIC) under international conventions like the Rotterdam Convention, detailed declarations of content, and strict packaging and labeling standards. Customs brokers must ensure all necessary permits and certifications are in place before shipment.
How does the Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent (PIC) Procedure apply to HS 2524.10?
Crocidolite (HS 2524.10) is listed under Annex III of the Rotterdam Convention, which means it is subject to the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure. This international treaty requires exporting parties to obtain the prior informed consent of importing parties before shipping certain hazardous chemicals and pesticides, including crocidolite. For importers, this means that their national designated authority must explicitly consent to the import of crocidolite, or the exporting country cannot legally ship it under the Convention's framework. Customs authorities in both the exporting and importing countries will verify compliance with PIC procedures, often requiring specific documentation or notifications.