HS 252610 Not crushed, not powdered
Quick Answer: HS code 252610 covers natural steatite (talc) and talc-schist that has not been crushed or powdered. This includes raw, unworked blocks or lumps of talc. For imports into the UK and EU, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00% ad valorem. In the United States, the MFN duty rate is 0.6¢/kg, with some specific provisions allowing for duty-free entry. Importers and customs brokers should verify the exact condition of the talc to ensure correct classification, as further processing (crushing, powdering) would lead to different HS codes (e.g., 252620). This distinction is crucial for accurate duty calculation and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2526100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2526100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2526100000 | 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 252610 cover?
This subheading covers natural steatite (talc) that has not undergone crushing or powdering processes. Specifically, it encompasses steatite in its crude, unworked state, typically appearing as lumps, irregular pieces, or blocks directly extracted from the mine. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2526 clarify that this subheading is for talc before any mechanical processing that alters its physical form into smaller particles. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system align, specifying "Not crushed, not powdered" to denote the raw, unprocessed mineral form, distinguishing it from subsequent stages of refinement.
What falls outside HS 252610?
The following products are excluded from HS 252610: steatite that has been crushed, ground, or powdered, which falls under HS 252620. For instance, talc in powder form, commonly used in cosmetics or industrial fillers, is explicitly classified in 252620, regardless of its purity or intended use. Similarly, cut or sawn steatite that has been further worked beyond simple extraction, such as into specific shapes for carvings or refractory bricks, would typically be classified elsewhere, potentially under Chapter 68 if manufactured articles, or other headings depending on the degree of working. The key differentiator is the absence of any mechanical reduction in particle size.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 252610?
A common error is misclassifying slightly broken or roughly sorted steatite pieces as "not crushed" when they have, in fact, undergone some degree of mechanical reduction or sorting that might be interpreted as crushing. Importers sometimes overlook the strict interpretation of "not crushed, not powdered," applying it too broadly to material that has been minimally processed. Another mistake involves confusing crude steatite with other similar-looking minerals or rocks, requiring careful chemical analysis to confirm its identity as talc. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 252610?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 252610 involves verifying that the steatite is in its raw, unworked state, free from any crushing or powdering. Importers and customs brokers should obtain documentation from the supplier confirming the mineral's form and processing history. Visual inspection is often sufficient to confirm the absence of fine particles or uniform grain sizes indicative of crushing. If there is any doubt, a laboratory analysis can confirm the physical state. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2526 and cross-referencing with national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS or EU TARIC) for specific interpretative rulings or binding tariff information is highly recommended to ensure accurate and compliant classification.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 2526.10 ('Not crushed, not powdered') in key markets, and are there any significant variations?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rates for HS code 2526.10, which covers natural steatite (talc) not crushed or powdered, are generally low or free across major economies. For instance, the United States (USITC) applies a duty rate of Free. The European Union (TARIC) also applies a duty rate of 0.00 % ad valorem. Similarly, the United Kingdom (UK Trade Tariff) applies 0.00 % ad valorem. Some countries, however, might apply specific duties; for example, certain markets may apply a rate such as 0.6¢/kg. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to the country of importation using the official tariff database of that nation, as rates can be subject to change or specific trade policy measures.
What are the critical classification criteria for distinguishing HS 2526.10 ('Not crushed, not powdered') from other talc classifications, and what documentation is typically required to support this classification?
The primary classification criterion for HS 2526.10 is the physical state of the steatite (talc): it must be 'not crushed, not powdered.' This means the talc should be in its natural, raw form, such as lumps, irregular pieces, or rough blocks, directly as extracted or minimally processed to remove gross impurities, but without undergoing any crushing, grinding, or pulverizing operations. If the talc has been subjected to any process that reduces its particle size to a powder or fine aggregate, it would typically fall under HS 2526.20 ('Crushed or powdered'). To support classification under 2526.10, importers should provide a Certificate of Analysis or a manufacturer's declaration confirming the physical state and absence of crushing/powdering processes. Photographs of the product can also be beneficial.
Which common free trade agreements (FTAs) or preferential trade programs offer duty reductions or eliminations for HS 2526.10, and what are the typical origin requirements?
Given that the MFN duty rates for HS 2526.10 are often Free or very low in many major markets, the impact of preferential trade agreements on duty reduction for this specific code might be less pronounced compared to goods with higher MFN rates. However, for countries where a small duty rate (e.g., 0.6¢/kg) is applied, FTAs can still provide a benefit. For example, under agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or various EU FTAs (e.g., with South Korea, Japan), goods originating from partner countries would typically qualify for duty-free treatment. The primary origin requirement for minerals like steatite is usually 'wholly obtained,' meaning the product must be entirely extracted or harvested within the territory of a single party to the agreement. Importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration from the exporter to claim preferential duty treatment.
Are there any specific import restrictions, quotas, or non-tariff barriers commonly associated with HS 2526.10 (natural steatite not crushed or powdered)?
For HS 2526.10, natural steatite not crushed or powdered, there are generally no widespread specific import restrictions, quotas, or significant non-tariff barriers related to its raw, un-processed state. As a basic mineral commodity, it is not typically subject to the same level of scrutiny as finished goods or products with environmental sensitivities. However, importers should always be aware of general import regulations that apply to all goods, such as phytosanitary certificates if there's any risk of soil contamination (though less common for minerals), or compliance with chemical substance regulations (e.g., REACH in the EU, TSCA in the US) if the material is intended for specific industrial applications. It is crucial for importers to consult the specific import requirements of the destination country, as regulations can vary and be updated.