HS 280519 Other
Quick Answer: HS 2805.19, "Other," covers a diverse range of alkali or alkaline-earth metals not specifically classified elsewhere within heading 2805.1. This includes metals like rubidium, cesium, francium, strontium, and barium, in various forms. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the UK generally applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU TARIC system typically levies 4.10% ad valorem. The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule shows a broader range, from 3.7% to 25% ad valorem, with many products eligible for "Free" duty under various preferential trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR). Accurate classification is crucial due to these rate differences and potential trade agreement benefits.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2805190000 | — | — | — |
| 2805199000 | — | — | — |
| 2805199090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2805191000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2805199020 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2805199000 | 4.10 % | — | — |
| 2805199020 | 4.10 % | — | — |
| 2805199090 | 4.10 % | — | — |
| 2805190000 | — | — | — |
| 2805191000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2805199010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 280519 | — | — | — |
| 2805191000 | 3.7% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2805192000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 28051990 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | — |
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 2805.19?
Imports of Other 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, GSP, 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 280519 cover?
This subheading covers other alkali metals, specifically those not falling under HS 280511 (Sodium) or 280512 (Potassium). According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes (WCO) for Heading 2805, this includes lithium, rubidium, and caesium. These are highly reactive metallic elements, typically encountered in pure form for specialized industrial applications, such as in batteries, catalysts, or high-purity chemical synthesis. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC similarly define this subheading to encompass these specific alkali metals, ensuring consistent global classification for these elemental substances.
What falls outside HS 280519?
The following products are excluded from HS 280519: Sodium (HS 280511) and Potassium (HS 280512) are specifically provided for elsewhere within Heading 2805. Furthermore, alloys of these alkali metals, even if predominantly composed of lithium, rubidium, or caesium, are generally classified under Heading 2805 if they meet the definition of an alloy, or potentially under other headings if they form specific chemical compounds. For instance, lithium hydride (LiH) would be classified under HS 285000, as it is a hydride, not the elemental metal itself. Similarly, compounds containing these elements, such as lithium carbonate, are classified under their respective inorganic compound headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 280519?
A common error is misclassifying alkali metal alloys or compounds as the pure elemental metal under HS 280519. Importers sometimes overlook the distinction between the pure element and its chemical derivatives or mixtures. For example, a lithium-aluminum alloy, even if rich in lithium, is not classified here but rather as an alloy. Another mistake involves incorrectly applying General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, failing to consider the specific provisions for sodium and potassium, and thus misclassifying them under "other" when they have their own distinct subheadings. Careful attention to the chemical identity and purity of the substance is paramount to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 280519?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 280519 involves first confirming the chemical identity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed an elemental alkali metal (lithium, rubidium, or caesium) and not sodium, potassium, an alloy, or a chemical compound. This typically requires reviewing the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Next, consult GRI 1 to ensure the most specific subheading is chosen; if it's not sodium or potassium, then 280519 is appropriate. Finally, cross-reference with the USITC HTS or EU TARIC for any specific national notes or rulings that might impact classification, ensuring full compliance with import regulations.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS 2805.19 in key markets, and what does 'Other' signify?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rate for HS 2805.19 'Other' typically ranges. For example, the United States applies a 3.7% ad valorem duty rate under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database shows a common customs tariff of 4.0% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 4.0% ad valorem duty. In some specific instances, higher rates like 25% may apply under certain trade remedies or specific country-of-origin scenarios, though this is less common for general MFN application. The term 'Other' within HS 2805.19 refers to alkali metals that are not specifically enumerated in subheadings 2805.11 (Sodium) or 2805.12 (Potassium), such as Lithium, Rubidium, and Caesium. This classification ensures all alkali metals are covered.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free access for products classified under HS 2805.19?
Many preferential trade agreements provide duty-free access for goods under HS 2805.19. For imports into the United States, duty-free treatment (indicated by 'Free' or 'A' in the HTSUS 'Special' column) is available under agreements such as the USMCA (Mexico, Canada), various 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). Importers should consult the specific trade agreement rules of origin to ensure their goods qualify for these preferential rates. Proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, is essential to claim these benefits.
What are the key classification criteria for ensuring a substance falls under HS 2805.19 'Other'?
The primary classification criterion for HS 2805.19 is that the substance must be an alkali metal, but specifically one that is not sodium (2805.11) or potassium (2805.12). This subheading covers other alkali metals such as lithium, rubidium, and caesium, in their elemental form. It's crucial that the product is in its unalloyed, elemental state to be classified here. If the metal is in an alloy, or if it's a compound of an alkali metal (e.g., lithium carbonate), it would be classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 28 or 29 depending on its chemical nature. Importers should have a detailed chemical analysis or specification sheet for the product to confirm its elemental composition and purity.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or regulatory considerations for importing alkali metals under HS 2805.19?
Yes, beyond standard customs documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), importing alkali metals under HS 2805.19 may involve additional regulatory considerations due to their reactive nature. While not typically subject to specific import licenses solely based on HS classification in many jurisdictions, importers should verify if the specific alkali metal (e.g., lithium) is subject to any domestic chemical control regulations (e.g., EPA or REACH in the EU) or hazardous material transportation regulations (e.g., UN dangerous goods classifications). A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS) is highly recommended and often required by carriers and receiving facilities to ensure safe handling and compliance with health and safety standards. For preferential duty claims, a valid Certificate of Origin is mandatory.