HS 280480 Arsenic

Quick Answer: HS code 280480 specifically covers "Arsenic," a chemical element primarily used in semiconductors, pesticides, and wood preservatives. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. In the UK, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.00% ad valorem. The European Union (EU) applies an MFN rate of 2.10% ad valorem. For the United States, the MFN duty rate is 13.2¢/kg, with certain preferential trade agreements potentially offering duty-free entry. Due to arsenic's toxicity, trade in this commodity is subject to stringent environmental and health regulations, including potential import/export licensing requirements and restrictions under international conventions like the Rotterdam Convention. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for smooth customs clearance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2804800000 2.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2804800000 2.10 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2804800000 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 280480 cover?

This subheading covers arsenic, a chemical element classified under Heading 2804 of the Harmonized System, which specifically encompasses hydrogen, rare gases, other non-metals. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature and further defined by national tariff schedules such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, HS 280480 is dedicated to arsenic in its elemental form. This includes arsenic in various purities and physical states, such as lumps, powder, or ingots, provided it remains unalloyed and uncompounded, serving as the pure chemical element for various industrial applications.

What falls outside HS 280480?

The following products are excluded from HS 280480: arsenic compounds, such as arsenic trioxide (As2O3), which is classified under HS 2811.90 as "Other inorganic acids and other non-metal oxides." Similarly, alloys containing arsenic, where arsenic is not the predominant element or where the product is specifically designed as an alloy, would fall under Chapter 72 or 73 for ferrous alloys, or Chapter 74-81 for non-ferrous alloys, depending on the base metal. For instance, lead-arsenic alloys used in battery grids are classified elsewhere, as they are no longer pure elemental arsenic but a manufactured alloy with specific properties.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 280480?

A common error is misclassifying arsenic compounds or alloys containing arsenic as elemental arsenic under HS 280480. Importers often overlook the critical distinction between the pure element and its chemical derivatives or mixtures. For example, arsenic trioxide, despite containing arsenic, is a distinct chemical compound and must be classified under HS 2811.90. This mistake often arises from a failure to apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, and GRI 6, which extends this principle to subheadings, ensuring that only the pure elemental form is placed here.

How should importers classify products under HS 280480?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 280480 involves verifying that the imported substance is indeed elemental arsenic and not an arsenic compound or alloy. Importers and customs brokers should meticulously review the chemical composition and purity specifications provided by the manufacturer. It is crucial to consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2804 and any specific national tariff guidance, such as the USITC HTS General Notes or EU TARIC classification regulations. If there is any doubt regarding the elemental nature, obtaining a laboratory analysis or a binding tariff information (BTI) ruling from the relevant customs authority is highly recommended to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 280490 HS 280470 HS 280450 HS 280461 HS 280410 HS 280440

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

FAQ

What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS code 2804.80 (Arsenic) in key markets?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS 2804.80 'Arsenic' vary by importing country. For example, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) 2024, the general MFN (Column 1) duty rate for 2804.80.00 is 'Free'. In contrast, the EU TARIC system may apply a different MFN duty rate, which could be, for instance, '2.10% ad valorem' or '13.2¢/kg' depending on the specific form or purity if further subheadings exist in their national tariff. Importers should always consult the official tariff schedule of the destination country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most current and precise duty rate applicable at the time of importation.

Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2804.80 under common trade agreements?

Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for HS 2804.80 'Arsenic' under various free trade agreements (FTAs) or special programs, provided the product meets the respective rules of origin. For instance, under agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating from Mexico or Canada may enter the U.S. duty-free. Similarly, goods imported into the EU from countries with preferential trade agreements (e.g., GSP, specific FTAs) could benefit from reduced or 'Free' duty rates. Importers should verify the product's origin and consult the specific trade agreement's text and the importing country's tariff schedule to determine eligibility for preferential treatment and ensure all documentation requirements, such as a certificate of origin, are met.

What are the key classification criteria for ensuring 'Arsenic' falls under HS 2804.80?

HS 2804.80 specifically covers 'Arsenic'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity of the substance. This heading is for the chemical element arsenic (As) in its uncombined form. It does not include arsenic compounds, which are classified elsewhere in Chapter 28 (e.g., arsenic trioxide under 2811.90, arsenites and arsenates under 2842). Importers must ensure that the product is indeed elemental arsenic, typically in solid form, and not an alloy containing arsenic or an arsenic compound. Laboratory analysis or a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) confirming the chemical composition and purity is often crucial for accurate classification, aligning with the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, Section VI, Chapter 28.

What specific documentation is required for importing 'Arsenic' under HS 2804.80, beyond standard customs documents?

Beyond standard customs documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importing 'Arsenic' (HS 2804.80) often necessitates additional regulatory documentation due to its hazardous nature and controlled uses. This may include a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to comply with hazard communication standards. Depending on the importing country, permits or licenses from environmental protection agencies (e.g., EPA in the U.S.) or chemical control authorities may be required. Furthermore, end-use statements might be requested to ensure compliance with chemical weapons conventions or other international agreements. Importers should consult the specific import requirements of the destination country, including any national legislation governing hazardous chemicals and dual-use goods.