HS 253010 Vermiculite, perlite and chlorites, unexpanded

Quick Answer: HS code 253010 covers vermiculite, perlite, and chlorites in their unexpanded, raw mineral form. These are naturally occurring mineral silicates primarily used in horticulture for soil conditioning, as lightweight aggregates in construction, and for insulation due to their excellent thermal properties when expanded. For importers and exporters, a significant trade consideration is the consistent "Free" duty rate across major jurisdictions. The UK Trade Tariff, EU TARIC, and US Harmonized Tariff Schedule all apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate to products classified under 253010. This widespread duty-free status simplifies customs clearance and reduces import costs, making these materials readily accessible for various industrial and agricultural applications globally.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2530100000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2530100000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2530100000 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?

How to Classify This HS Code?

What products does HS 253010 cover?

This subheading covers vermiculite, perlite, and chlorites, specifically in their unexpanded state. These are naturally occurring mineral silicates that possess the unique characteristic of expanding significantly when heated, but for classification under 2530.10, they must not have undergone this thermal expansion process. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature for Chapter 25, Note 1, clarifies that this chapter covers mineral products not elsewhere specified or included. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this definition, specifying the unexpanded form of these minerals, which are typically used as raw materials for various industrial applications, including insulation, horticulture, and lightweight aggregates.

What falls outside HS 253010?

The following products are excluded from HS 253010: vermiculite, perlite, and chlorites that have been expanded through heating. Expanded vermiculite and perlite, which are lightweight and porous, are classified under HS subheading 6806.20.00 as "Exfoliated vermiculite, expanded clays, foamed slag and similar expanded mineral materials (including intermixtures thereof)." This distinction is crucial as the expansion process fundamentally alters their physical properties and end-use applications. Furthermore, mixtures containing these minerals with other substances, or products where these minerals are merely components of a larger manufactured article, would also be excluded and classified according to their principal characteristics or composition.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 253010?

A common error is misclassifying expanded vermiculite or perlite under HS 253010. Importers frequently overlook the "unexpanded" qualifier, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties. This mistake often arises from a lack of understanding of the physical state of the product at the time of importation. According to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. In this case, the specific wording "unexpanded" is paramount. Another mistake can involve products that are merely crushed or ground but not thermally expanded; these remain classified under 253010, as crushing does not constitute expansion.

How should importers classify products under HS 253010?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 253010 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical state. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the vermiculite, perlite, or chlorites have not undergone any thermal expansion process. This typically requires reviewing product specifications, material safety data sheets (MSDS), and potentially requesting a certificate of analysis from the supplier. If there is any doubt, a sample should be examined to confirm its unexpanded state. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 25 and specific national tariff guidance, such as the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC, is also essential to ensure compliance with GRI 1 and accurate classification, thereby avoiding costly errors and delays at customs.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 253020 HS 250810 HS 251310 HS 252910 HS 252510 HS 252530

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 2530.10 (Vermiculite, perlite and chlorites, unexpanded) in major trading blocs?

For HS code 2530.10, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are generally very low or free across major economies. For example, the United States (under HTSUS subheading 2530.10.00.00) applies a 'Free' duty rate. Similarly, the European Union (under TARIC code 2530100000) applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (under commodity code 2530100000) also applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty. These rates indicate that these unexpanded minerals are typically not subject to standard customs duties upon import into these territories, reflecting their raw material status.

What are the key classification criteria for unexpanded vermiculite, perlite, and chlorites under HS 2530.10?

The primary classification criterion for HS 2530.10 is that the vermiculite, perlite, and chlorites must be in their 'unexpanded' state. This means they have not undergone the heat treatment process that causes them to exfoliate or expand, which significantly changes their physical properties and end-use. The Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 25 clarify that this heading covers these minerals in their natural state, whether crushed, ground, or powdered, but specifically excludes them if they have been expanded. For example, expanded perlite or vermiculite would typically classify under HS 6806 (Slag wool, rock wool and similar mineral wools; exfoliated vermiculite, expanded clays, foamed slag and similar expanded mineral materials; thermal insulating, sound-absorbing or non-refractory fireproof materials, in bulk, sheet or slab form, or in similar forms).

Are there any specific documentation requirements or certifications needed for importing unexpanded vermiculite, perlite, or chlorites under HS 2530.10?

Generally, for HS 2530.10, standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill is sufficient. Due to the nature of these raw minerals, specific health, safety, or environmental certifications beyond general customs compliance are typically not required unless there are specific national regulations concerning mineral imports or if the material is intended for highly regulated applications (e.g., certain food-grade or pharmaceutical uses, which are rare for unexpanded forms). Importers should always verify with the relevant national customs authority or a licensed customs broker for any country-specific import restrictions or additional documentation that might apply.

How do trade agreements impact the duty rates for HS 2530.10?

Given that the MFN duty rates for HS 2530.10 are already 0.00% or 'Free' in many major economies (e.g., US, EU, UK), most preferential trade agreements (such as FTAs like USMCA, EU-Japan EPA, or UK-Australia FTA) will not result in further duty reductions for this specific HS code. The duty rate cannot go below zero. However, these agreements can still offer other benefits, such as simplified customs procedures, reduced administrative burden, or enhanced supply chain predictability. Importers should still ensure they meet the Rules of Origin requirements under any applicable trade agreement to claim preferential treatment, even if the duty rate is already zero, as this confirms compliance and may be relevant for other trade statistics or future policy changes.