HS 252520 Mica powder
Quick Answer: HS code 252520 covers mica powder, a finely ground form of mica, used extensively in cosmetics, paints, electronics, and construction materials for its insulating, reflective, and decorative properties. Importers and exporters should note the significant variation in duty rates across major markets. The United Kingdom and the European Union apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate, indicating duty-free entry for mica powder into these territories. Conversely, the United States applies a 20% ad valorem duty rate, though certain preferential trade agreements or programs may allow for duty-free entry (e.g., under specific Generalized System of Preferences provisions or Free Trade Agreements). Importers should verify eligibility for such programs to optimize landed costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2525200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2525200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2525200000 | 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 252520 cover?
This subheading covers mica powder, which is mica that has been ground, pulverized, or otherwise processed into a powdered form. This includes both dry-ground and wet-ground mica powder, used across various industries for its unique properties such as insulation, heat resistance, and pearlescent effects. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2525 specifically address mica in its various forms, and subheading 2525.20 explicitly designates mica powder, distinguishing it from crude mica or mica waste. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system align with this scope, encompassing all forms of powdered mica regardless of particle size, provided it remains essentially mica.
What falls outside HS 252520?
The following products are excluded from HS 252520: crude mica, mica splittings, and mica waste, which are classified under other subheadings within Heading 2525, specifically 2525.10 and 2525.30 respectively. Furthermore, articles made from mica, such as fabricated mica sheets or insulators, are classified in Chapter 68 or other relevant chapters depending on their composition and function, as they are no longer merely raw or processed mica powder. For instance, agglomerated or reconstituted mica, even if in sheet form, would typically fall under Heading 6814. Mica-based pigments, where mica is combined with other substances to create a finished pigment, are generally classified in Chapter 32, as they have undergone further processing beyond simple grinding into powder.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 252520?
A common error is misclassifying mica powder that has been slightly treated or mixed with minor binding agents as a finished article or pigment, rather than as raw mica powder. Importers sometimes confuse mica powder with mica flakes or larger mica pieces, which belong in other subheadings of 2525. Another frequent mistake involves classifying mica-based pigments, which are distinct chemical preparations, under 252520 instead of Chapter 32. This often occurs due to a misunderstanding of General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which dictates classification according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, and GRI 3(b) for mixtures, where the essential character must be determined. The key is to assess if the product's essential character remains that of simple mica powder or if it has been transformed into a more complex article or preparation.
How should importers classify products under HS 252520?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 252520 involves first confirming that the product is indeed mica in a powdered form, not crude mica, mica waste, or a fabricated article. Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2525 to understand the precise scope of "mica powder." It is crucial to obtain detailed product specifications from the manufacturer, including the degree of processing and any added substances. If the product is a mixture, apply General Rule of Interpretation 3(b) to determine if the mica powder imparts the essential character. For US imports, cross-reference with the USITC HTSUS; for EU imports, consult the EU TARIC database. When in doubt, consider requesting a binding tariff information (BTI) ruling from the relevant customs authority to ensure legal certainty and avoid potential penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS code 252520 (Mica powder) in key markets?
The MFN import duty rates for HS 252520 (Mica powder) vary by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a 'Free' rate (0.00% ad valorem) under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database also indicates a 'Free' rate (0.00% ad valorem) for most MFN imports. However, other countries may apply different rates, such as a 20% ad valorem duty in some jurisdictions. Importers should always verify the specific MFN duty rate applicable to their destination country using official tariff schedules like the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for mica powder under HS 252520, and how does it differ from other mica products?
HS code 252520 specifically covers 'Mica powder.' The primary classification criterion is the physical form of the mica, which must be in powder form. This typically means finely ground mica, often used as a filler, pigment, or insulator. It differentiates from other mica headings such as 252510 ('Crude mica and mica rifted into sheets or splittings') which covers unworked or roughly prepared mica, and 252530 ('Mica waste'), which covers scraps or by-products not suitable for powdering or sheeting. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 25 provide further guidance, emphasizing that the material must be predominantly mica and in a powdered state, regardless of its specific grade or color.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for mica powder (HS 252520) under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for HS 252520 under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade programs. For instance, under agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods originating from Mexico or Canada would typically enter the U.S. duty-free. Similarly, the EU has numerous FTAs (e.g., with South Korea, Japan) and Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) schemes that could grant 0.00% duty rates to eligible mica powder from beneficiary countries. Importers must ensure that the mica powder meets the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the relevant agreement to qualify for preferential treatment. This usually involves obtaining a Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration from the exporter.
What documentation is typically required for importing mica powder (HS 252520) and are there any specific regulatory concerns?
Standard import documentation for mica powder (HS 252520) generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and potentially a Certificate of Origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. While mica powder is generally considered a low-risk commodity, importers should be aware of potential regulatory concerns depending on its end-use. For instance, if the mica powder is intended for use in cosmetics, food additives, or pharmaceuticals, it may be subject to additional regulations from agencies like the FDA in the U.S. or REACH regulations in the EU, requiring specific safety data sheets (SDS) or compliance certifications. It is crucial to verify any specific import requirements with the relevant government agencies in the importing country prior to shipment.