HS 280490 Selenium

Quick Answer: HS Code 280490 specifically covers "Selenium," a chemical element primarily used in electronics, pigments, and glass manufacturing. This classification encompasses selenium in various forms, including unworked, semi-worked, and powder. Across major jurisdictions, the duty rates are consistently favorable. For instance, both the UK and EU apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate, as per the UK Trade Tariff and EU TARIC, respectively. Similarly, the United States imposes a "Free" duty rate, as indicated by the USITC. Importers and exporters should note the consistent zero-duty treatment, simplifying trade compliance for this essential industrial material. However, always verify specific product forms and end-uses against national regulations for any non-tariff measures or specific import/export controls.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2804900000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2804900000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2804900000 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 280490 cover?

This subheading covers selenium, a non-metallic chemical element, specifically in its unalloyed form. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes for Heading 2804, this includes selenium in various forms such as powder, lumps, or pellets, provided it remains chemically uncombined and unalloyed. It encompasses both amorphous and crystalline selenium, typically used in electronics, pigments, and glass manufacturing. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system both align with this WCO definition, classifying elemental selenium under this specific eight-digit code.

What falls outside HS 280490?

The following products are excluded from HS 280490: selenium alloys, which are classified under Chapter 71 if they contain precious metals, or other chapters depending on their primary metallic component. For example, cadmium selenide, a chemical compound of selenium, is classified under Heading 2842 as "Other inorganic compounds." Similarly, selenium-containing rectifiers or other electronic components are classified under Chapter 85, as they are finished articles rather than the raw element. Selenium-enriched yeasts or other food supplements are also excluded, falling under Chapter 21 or 29, depending on their specific composition and preparation.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 280490?

A common error is misclassifying selenium compounds or alloys as elemental selenium. Importers sometimes overlook the distinction between the pure element and its chemical derivatives or mixtures. For instance, classifying selenium dioxide (SeO2) under 280490 instead of 2811.90 (Other inorganic acids and other inorganic oxygen compounds of non-metals) is a frequent mistake. This often stems 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 for subheadings, ensuring that only the uncombined element is placed here.

How should importers classify products under HS 280490?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 280490 involves verifying the chemical purity and form of the selenium. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating that the product is elemental selenium (Se) and not a compound or alloy. They must ensure the product is not incorporated into a finished article. Applying GRI 1, confirm that the product precisely matches the description "Selenium" under Heading 2804 and subheading 280490, ensuring no other heading more specifically describes the goods. If in doubt, consider requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 280450 HS 282490 HS 280480 HS 280540 HS 280469 HS 280461

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

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 2804.90 (Selenium) in major markets?

Selenium, classified under HS 2804.90, generally benefits from low or zero Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates in many major trading blocs. For example, the United States (HTSUS 2804.90.00.00) applies a 'Free' rate of duty for MFN countries. Similarly, the European Union (TARIC 2804 90 00 00) and the United Kingdom Global Tariff (2804 90 00 00) also apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their country of import and origin using official tariff databases like the USITC HTS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff.

Are there any preferential duty rates available for Selenium under HS 2804.90 through common trade agreements?

Yes, due to the generally low or zero MFN rates for HS 2804.90, many free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential schemes also grant duty-free access. For instance, under agreements such as USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), imports of selenium originating from Mexico or Canada into the U.S. would also be duty-free. Similarly, imports into the EU from countries with comprehensive FTAs (e.g., Korea, Japan) would typically also be duty-free, provided the rules of origin are met. Importers should consult the specific FTA text and origin rules to confirm eligibility for preferential treatment and ensure proper documentation, such as a certificate of origin, is available.

What are the key classification criteria for ensuring Selenium is correctly assigned to HS 2804.90?

HS code 2804.90 specifically covers 'Other non-metals' within Chapter 28, which deals with inorganic chemicals. Selenium is an elemental non-metal. The primary classification criterion is that the product must be unalloyed selenium in its elemental form. If the selenium is part of a compound (e.g., sodium selenite, selenium dioxide), it would be classified under other headings within Chapter 28 or Chapter 29, depending on the chemical nature of the compound. If it's an alloy containing selenium, it would likely fall under Chapter 71 or 81, depending on the predominant metal. Importers should ensure the product description precisely reflects elemental selenium to avoid misclassification.

What documentation is typically required for importing Selenium under HS 2804.90?

Standard import documentation applies to HS 2804.90. This typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and potentially a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. While selenium itself is not typically subject to stringent import licensing for trade compliance purposes, importers should be aware of any specific national regulations concerning hazardous materials, environmental controls, or end-use restrictions, especially if the selenium is of high purity or intended for sensitive applications. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are also crucial for proper handling and transportation.