HS 252930 Leucite; nepheline and nepheline syenite

What products does HS 252930 cover?

This subheading covers leucite, nepheline, and nepheline syenite, which are naturally occurring mineral products. Leucite is a potassium-aluminum tectosilicate mineral, while nepheline is a feldspathoid mineral, typically found in silica-undersaturated igneous rocks. Nepheline syenite is an intrusive igneous rock composed primarily of nepheline, alkali feldspar, and other mafic minerals, but lacking quartz. These materials are primarily used in the ceramic, glass, and refractory industries as sources of alumina and alkalis. The scope is precisely defined by the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as interpreted by the World Customs Organization (WCO), and reflected in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system.

What falls outside HS 252930?

The following products are excluded from HS 252930: synthetic versions of leucite or nepheline, which would be classified under Chapter 28 or 38 depending on their chemical composition and form. Furthermore, rocks containing significant amounts of quartz, even if they also contain nepheline, would typically be excluded, as the presence of quartz fundamentally alters the rock's geological classification and industrial applications, potentially leading to classification under other headings in Chapter 25, such as 2517 for pebbles, gravel, broken or crushed stone, or 2530 for other mineral substances not elsewhere specified or included. Prepared or processed forms beyond simple crushing or grinding, such as calcined or chemically treated variants, may also fall outside this heading.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 252930?

A common error is misclassifying processed or refined forms of these minerals. For instance, if leucite or nepheline syenite has undergone significant chemical treatment or has been incorporated into a mixture, it may no longer be considered a simple mineral substance of Heading 2529. Another frequent mistake involves confusing nepheline syenite with other igneous rocks, especially those containing feldspar but lacking nepheline or containing quartz. Importers must carefully verify the mineralogical composition to ensure the absence of quartz and the presence of nepheline as a primary component. Misapplication of General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, often leads to these errors.

How should importers classify products under HS 252930?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 252930 involves a meticulous review of the product's mineralogical composition and degree of processing. Importers and customs brokers should obtain detailed laboratory analyses or certificates of analysis from the supplier, confirming the presence of leucite, nepheline, or nepheline syenite and the absence of quartz. It is crucial to ensure the product is in its natural state, or merely crushed, ground, or powdered, without further chemical alteration or mixture with other substances. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to Heading 2529, published by the WCO, provides authoritative guidance. In cases of doubt, seeking a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, national customs authorities in the EU) is highly recommended to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.