HS 252921 Fluorspar
Quick Answer: HS code 252921 covers fluorspar, specifically containing by weight 97% or less of calcium fluoride. Fluorspar, also known as fluorite, is a mineral primarily used as a flux in steelmaking, in the production of hydrofluoric acid for refrigerants and aluminum, and in ceramics. For importers and exporters, understanding the varying duty rates is crucial. The UK and EU apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate, indicating duty-free entry. In contrast, the United States imposes a 13.5% ad valorem duty rate, though certain preferential trade agreements may offer duty-free treatment. Importers should verify eligibility for such programs to optimize landed costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2529210000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2529210000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2529210000 | 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 252921 cover?
This subheading covers fluorspar, also known as fluorite, containing by weight 97% or less of calcium fluoride. Fluorspar is a mineral composed of calcium fluoride (CaF2) and is a primary source of fluorine. It is typically used as a flux in steelmaking, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, and in the manufacture of ceramics and enamels. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2529 specifically delineate fluorspar based on its calcium fluoride content, distinguishing it from higher-purity grades. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system align with this definition, ensuring consistent global classification for this specific purity level.
What falls outside HS 252921?
The following products are excluded from HS 252921: fluorspar containing by weight more than 97% of calcium fluoride, which is classified under HS 252922. This distinction is crucial and is based solely on the chemical purity percentage. Additionally, artificial calcium fluoride, even if chemically identical to natural fluorspar, would be excluded from Chapter 25, which covers only mineral products, and would typically fall under Chapter 28 as an inorganic chemical. Furthermore, prepared fluxes containing fluorspar mixed with other materials, designed for specific metallurgical applications, would generally be classified under headings such as 3810, as mixtures, rather than under this raw mineral heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 252921?
A common error is misclassifying fluorspar based on its calcium fluoride content, particularly confusing grades that fall just above or below the 97% threshold. Importers sometimes overlook the precise chemical analysis required to differentiate between HS 252921 (97% or less) and HS 252922 (more than 97%). This often leads to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties. Another mistake involves classifying processed fluorspar, such as ground or powdered forms, under a different heading, when Heading 2529 explicitly covers fluorspar in its various physical states, provided it remains an unmixed mineral. 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 paramount here.
How should importers classify products under HS 252921?
The correct procedure for classifying fluorspar under HS 252921 involves obtaining a precise chemical analysis certificate from the supplier or an accredited laboratory, clearly stating the calcium fluoride (CaF2) content by weight. Importers and customs brokers must verify that this content is 97% or less. If the analysis shows more than 97%, the product must be classified under HS 252922. It is also advisable to review the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2529, along with the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC), to confirm any additional national-level guidance or rulings. Maintaining accurate records of these chemical analyses is essential for compliance and to support classification decisions during customs audits.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for Fluorspar (HS 2529.21) when imported into the United States?
For imports into the United States, Fluorspar classified under HTSUS subheading 2529.21.00.00 is subject to a Most Favored Nation (Column 1, General) duty rate of 'Free'. This means there is no ad valorem duty applied under the general tariff schedule. Importers should always verify the current rates via the US International Trade Commission (USITC) HTSUS database.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Fluorspar (HS 2529.21) under common trade agreements?
Yes, Fluorspar (HS 2529.21) can often benefit from preferential duty rates depending on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), imports of Fluorspar originating from Mexico or Canada are typically 'Free' of duty. Similarly, many Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) beneficiary countries may also qualify for duty-free treatment. Importers must ensure they meet the Rules of Origin requirements for the respective agreement and provide proper documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim preferential treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for Fluorspar under HS 2529.21, specifically distinguishing between 'containing by weight 97% or less of calcium fluoride' and 'containing by weight more than 97% of calcium fluoride'?
HS subheading 2529.21 covers Fluorspar 'containing by weight 97% or less of calcium fluoride'. The critical classification criterion is the calcium fluoride (CaF2) content by weight. If the Fluorspar contains 97% or less of CaF2, it falls under 2529.21. Conversely, Fluorspar containing more than 97% by weight of CaF2 is classified under HS subheading 2529.22. Accurate chemical analysis and certification of the CaF2 content are essential for correct classification. This distinction is crucial as duty rates or other import requirements can vary between the two subheadings in some customs territories.
What documentation is typically required for importing Fluorspar (HS 2529.21) and are there any specific regulatory considerations?
Standard import documentation for Fluorspar (HS 2529.21) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration. To substantiate the classification and potential preferential duty claims, a certificate of analysis detailing the calcium fluoride content is highly recommended, especially to distinguish between 2529.21 and 2529.22. While Fluorspar is not typically subject to extensive import restrictions, importers should always check for any specific environmental, health, or safety regulations in the importing country that might apply to mineral products, such as reporting requirements or specific handling instructions, although these are less common for raw fluorspar than for processed chemicals.