HS 261590 Other
Quick Answer: HS code 261590, titled "Other," encompasses a range of unwrought base metals not elsewhere specified in Heading 2615, primarily Niobium, Tantalum, or Zirconium ores and concentrates. This residual category captures various forms of these critical raw materials, including their concentrates. Duty rates for 261590 exhibit significant variation. The UK and EU generally apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty across all subheadings, indicating free trade for these products. Conversely, the US tariff schedule shows a broader range, with some subheadings enjoying a Free rate, while others, such as certain unwrought zirconium, face a substantial 30% ad valorem duty. Importers and customs brokers must meticulously classify specific products within this heading to determine the precise applicable duty and ensure compliance, particularly when trading with the US.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2615900010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2615900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2615900090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2615900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2615900010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2615900090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2615903000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 261590 | — | — | — |
| 26159060 | Free | — | — |
| 2615906030 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 2615906060 | — | — | ["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 261590 cover?
This subheading covers unwrought molybdenum ores and concentrates, other than roasted molybdenum ores and concentrates, which are specifically classified under HS 2615.10. According to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSENs) for Chapter 26, Heading 26.15 encompasses "Niobium, tantalum or zirconium ores and concentrates." Subheading 2615.90, therefore, acts as the residual category for all other ores and concentrates of niobium, tantalum, or zirconium that do not meet the specific criteria for roasted molybdenum ores and concentrates. This includes various forms of these minerals in their raw, unrefined state, typically after initial beneficiation processes like crushing, grinding, and flotation, but before any roasting or further metallurgical processing that would alter their chemical composition significantly. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC similarly define this subheading as "Niobium, tantalum or zirconium ores and concentrates: Other."
What falls outside HS 261590?
The following products are excluded from HS 261590: roasted molybdenum ores and concentrates, which are specifically classified under HS 2615.10. Furthermore, chemically defined niobium, tantalum, or zirconium compounds, such as niobium pentoxide or zirconium dioxide, are excluded and classified in Chapter 28, even if derived directly from these ores. Metals themselves, like unwrought niobium, tantalum, or zirconium, are classified in Chapter 81. For instance, a pure tantalum metal ingot, even if produced from tantalum ore, would fall under HS 8103.00, not 2615.90. Similarly, waste and scrap of these metals are classified under HS 8103.00 for tantalum and niobium, and HS 8109.90 for zirconium, not within Chapter 26, which is reserved for ores and concentrates.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 261590?
A common error is misclassifying roasted molybdenum ores and concentrates under HS 261590 instead of the specific HS 2615.10. Importers sometimes overlook the distinction between "roasted" and "other" forms, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties. Another frequent mistake involves classifying partially processed materials that have undergone significant chemical transformation, such as intermediate products of metallurgical processes, within this subheading. These materials, if they constitute chemically defined compounds or unwrought metals, should be classified in Chapters 28 or 81, respectively, based on their composition and degree of processing. Adhering to 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, is crucial to avoid such errors, ensuring the product's actual state aligns with the subheading's scope for "ores and concentrates."
How should importers classify products under HS 261590?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 261590 involves a thorough review of the product's physical and chemical state, specifically confirming it is an ore or concentrate of niobium, tantalum, or zirconium, and critically, that it has not been roasted. Importers and customs brokers should first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 26 and Heading 26.15 to understand the precise scope of "ores and concentrates." Next, verify that the product does not meet the definition of roasted molybdenum ores and concentrates, which would necessitate classification under HS 2615.10. Finally, cross-reference with the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU TARIC system for any specific national or regional interpretative notes or rulings. Obtaining a laboratory analysis confirming the material's composition and degree of processing can provide essential supporting documentation for accurate classification, mitigating risks of misdeclaration.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What specific materials are covered under HS code 2615.90, 'Other', and how is classification determined for this residual category?
HS code 2615.90 covers manganese ores and concentrates not specifically provided for in subheading 2615.10 (which is for manganese ores and concentrates with a manganese content of 20% or more, on a dry weight basis). Therefore, 2615.90 primarily includes manganese ores and concentrates with a manganese content of less than 20% on a dry weight basis. Classification is determined by the actual manganese content, typically verified through laboratory analysis of a representative sample. Importers should ensure their documentation clearly states the manganese content to support classification under this residual 'Other' category, as per Explanatory Note 26.15 of the Harmonized System.
What are the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS code 2615.90 in major trading blocs, and are there any significant variations?
The MFN duty rates for HS code 2615.90 are generally quite low or 'Free' across major trading blocs. For example, the United States (USITC) applies a 'Free' duty rate. Similarly, the European Union (EU TARIC) and the United Kingdom (UK Trade Tariff) also apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate. While some specific countries might have varying rates, the predominant MFN treatment for this raw material is duty-free, reflecting its status as a primary commodity. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their destination country via the respective national customs tariff database.
Are there any preferential duty rates or free trade agreements (FTAs) that commonly offer benefits for imports under HS code 2615.90?
Given that the MFN duty rate for HS 2615.90 is frequently 0.00% or 'Free' in many major economies, the direct impact of preferential duty rates under FTAs is often minimal, as there is no duty to reduce further. However, participation in an FTA can still offer benefits such as simplified customs procedures, reduced administrative burden, or origin certification advantages. For instance, imports into the US from countries with which it has an FTA (e.g., USMCA, CAFTA-DR) would still be 'Free' under the preferential tariff, consistent with the MFN rate. Importers should consult the specific FTA rules of origin to ensure their goods qualify for any available preferences, even if the duty rate is already zero.
What specific documentation is required for importing manganese ores and concentrates under HS 2615.90, beyond standard shipping documents?
Beyond standard shipping documents such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of manganese ores and concentrates under HS 2615.90 should be prepared to provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA). This CoA is crucial for verifying the manganese content, which determines the correct subheading classification (i.e., less than 20% manganese content for 2615.90). Depending on the origin and destination, additional documentation related to environmental compliance, radiation screening, or conflict minerals declarations might be required. It is advisable for importers to consult with their customs broker and the import regulations of the destination country to ensure all specific documentation requirements are met.