HS 280512 Calcium
Quick Answer: HS code 2805.12 covers calcium, a reactive alkaline earth metal, typically in its elemental form. This classification is for unalloyed calcium, distinct from calcium compounds or alloys. Importers and customs brokers should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. For example, the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU TARIC system shows a 5.50% ad valorem rate. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 25% ad valorem, though many preferential trade agreements (e.g., A+, AU, CL, KR, SG) offer duty-free entry. Accurate classification is crucial to leverage these preferential rates and ensure compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2805120000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2805120090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2805120010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2805120090 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2805120000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2805120010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2805120000 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 2805.12?
Imports of Calcium may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 280512 cover?
This subheading covers calcium in its elemental form, specifically referring to calcium metal. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as interpreted by the World Customs Organization (WCO), Heading 2805 encompasses alkali or alkaline-earth metals, rare-earth metals, scandium and yttrium, whether or not intermixed or interalloyed; mercury. Subheading 2805.12 precisely identifies "Calcium" within this broader category. This includes calcium in various commercial forms such as lumps, granules, turnings, or powder, provided it remains unalloyed or unmixed with other substances to an extent that would alter its fundamental character as elemental calcium. Both the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system align with this definition, classifying pure calcium metal here.
What falls outside HS 280512?
The following products are excluded from HS 280512: calcium alloys, which are typically classified under Heading 7202 if they are ferro-alloys, or other headings in Chapter 72 or 76 depending on their base metal composition. Calcium compounds, such as calcium carbonate (HS 2836.50), calcium chloride (HS 2827.20), calcium hydroxide (HS 2825.90), or calcium oxide (HS 2825.90), are also specifically excluded as they are chemical compounds and not the elemental metal. Furthermore, calcium-containing waste and scrap, even if predominantly calcium, would generally fall under Chapter 26 or Chapter 72 depending on its nature and processability. Products where calcium is merely an impurity or a minor component in a larger alloy or mixture are also excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 280512?
A common error is misclassifying calcium alloys or calcium compounds under HS 280512. Importers sometimes overlook the distinction between elemental metals and their chemical derivatives or mixtures. For instance, calcium silicide, an alloy used in metallurgy, is often mistakenly considered elemental calcium, but it is correctly classified under HS 2853.90. Another mistake involves classifying calcium metal that has been intentionally alloyed with other metals, even in small percentages, under this subheading. General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1 dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. GRI 3(b) would apply if calcium were part of a mixture or composite good, where the essential character would need to be determined, which is not the case for pure elemental calcium.
How should importers classify products under HS 280512?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 280512 involves verifying that the product is indeed elemental calcium metal and not an alloy, compound, or mixture. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a detailed chemical analysis or a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the purity of the calcium and the absence of significant alloying elements. Reviewing the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2805 is crucial to confirm the scope. If the product is pure calcium metal, regardless of its physical form (e.g., lumps, powder), it correctly falls under HS 280512. For the United States, the duty rate for HS 2805.12.00.00 is Free (0% ad valorem) under the General column. For the EU, the TARIC code 2805120000 also typically has a 0% ad valorem duty rate, and the UK Global Tariff (UKGT) for 2805120000 is also 0% ad valorem.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS code 2805.12 (Calcium) in major markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rate for HS code 2805.12 (Calcium) can vary by importing country. For example, the general MFN duty rate in the United States, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) published by the USITC, is 4.00% ad valorem. In the European Union's TARIC, the MFN duty rate is 5.50% ad valorem. Importers should always verify the current applicable MFN rate with the official tariff schedule of the destination country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Calcium (HS 2805.12) under common Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or special programs?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for HS 2805.12 under various Free Trade Agreements and special trade programs, provided the goods meet the respective rules of origin. For instance, imports into the U.S. may qualify for duty-free treatment under agreements such as USMCA (Mexico, Canada), CAFTA-DR (Central America, Dominican Republic), or FTAs with Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG). Similar preferential rates exist for the EU and UK under their respective agreements. Importers must ensure they have the correct origin documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin) to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for ensuring a product falls under HS 2805.12 as 'Calcium'?
HS code 2805.12 specifically covers 'Calcium' within the broader heading 28.05 for 'Alkali or alkaline-earth metals; rare-earth metals, scandium and yttrium, whether or not intermixed or interalloyed; mercury.' The primary criterion is that the product must consist predominantly of the element Calcium (Ca). This typically refers to elemental calcium in various forms (e.g., lumps, granules, powder). It does not include calcium compounds (e.g., calcium carbonate, calcium chloride), which are classified elsewhere in Chapter 28 or 29 depending on their chemical nature. Importers should refer to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for Chapter 28 and Heading 28.05 for precise guidance, which clarify the scope of elemental metals versus their compounds or alloys.
What specific documentation is typically required for the import of Calcium (HS 2805.12)?
Standard import documentation for HS 2805.12 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. To claim preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (or equivalent declaration) is essential, confirming the goods meet the origin requirements of the relevant trade agreement. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) may also be required due to calcium's reactive properties, especially in its elemental form. Some countries may also require an import license or specific chemical declarations, so it's crucial to check the specific import regulations of the destination country prior to shipment.