HS 280610 Hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid)
Quick Answer: HS Code 280610 specifically covers Hydrogen Chloride (HCl) and its aqueous solution, Hydrochloric Acid. This classification applies to the chemical compound regardless of concentration, provided it remains chemically pure or in solution. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the United Kingdom applies a 0.00% duty, while the European Union levies a 5.50% ad valorem duty. The United States imposes a "Free" duty rate. Key trade considerations include the hazardous nature of hydrochloric acid, necessitating compliance with specific safety data sheet (SDS), packaging, and transport regulations (e.g., IMO, IATA, DOT). Proper classification is crucial to avoid delays and ensure compliance with chemical control laws and trade agreements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2806100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2806100000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2806100000 | Free | — | ["t"] |
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 280610 cover?
This subheading covers hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid), which is an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride gas. It is a strong, corrosive mineral acid with numerous industrial applications, including the production of organic compounds, pickling of steel, and pH control. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2806 explicitly state that this heading covers hydrogen chloride and chlorosulphuric acid, with subheading 2806.10 specifically identifying hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid). The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this definition, classifying the pure chemical compound in its aqueous form here.
What falls outside HS 280610?
The following products are excluded from HS 280610: anhydrous hydrogen chloride gas, which is classified under HS 2806.90 as "other" products of Heading 2806. Additionally, mixtures containing hydrochloric acid but formulated for specific end-uses, such as certain cleaning preparations or etching solutions, may be classified elsewhere based on their primary function and composition, often falling into Chapter 34 or 38. For instance, descaling preparations based on hydrochloric acid, if they contain other active ingredients or are put up for retail sale, might be classified under HS 3824.99 or similar headings, depending on their specific formulation and intended use, rather than as a bulk chemical.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 280610?
A common error is misclassifying anhydrous hydrogen chloride gas under HS 280610, which is specifically for the aqueous solution (hydrochloric acid). Anhydrous hydrogen chloride gas should be classified under HS 2806.90. Another mistake involves classifying hydrochloric acid that has been diluted or mixed with other substances for a specific application, such as a laboratory reagent or a cleaning agent, solely based on its hydrochloric acid content. According to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b), if a product is a mixture, classification should be based on the component that gives the mixture its essential character, which might lead to classification outside of Chapter 28 if the hydrochloric acid is not the predominant or defining component.
How should importers classify products under HS 280610?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 280610 involves verifying that the imported substance is indeed hydrogen chloride in an aqueous solution, commonly known as hydrochloric acid. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer to confirm the chemical identity, concentration, and physical state (aqueous solution). If the product is anhydrous hydrogen chloride gas, it must be classified under HS 2806.90. If the product is a mixture containing hydrochloric acid, but also other components for a specific application, a thorough review against GRI 3 is necessary to determine the essential character and avoid misclassification, potentially leading to a different chapter.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for Hydrogen Chloride (Hydrochloric Acid) under HS 2806.10?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2806.10, 'Hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid)', can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a 'Free' rate (0.00% ad valorem) under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for MFN countries. The EU TARIC database also indicates a 'Free' rate (0.00% ad valorem) for imports into the European Union. However, some countries may apply rates such as 5.50% ad valorem. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rates applicable to their specific origin and destination.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2806.10 under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for HS 2806.10 depending on the country of origin and the trade agreements in force with the importing country. For instance, imports into the United States from countries party to agreements like USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), or various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) often qualify for a 'Free' (0.00%) duty rate, provided all rules of origin are met. Similarly, the EU offers preferential rates under agreements such as GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) or specific FTAs. Importers should verify eligibility for preferential treatment by consulting the relevant trade agreement text and ensuring proper documentation, such as a certificate of origin, is available.
What are the key classification criteria for ensuring correct classification of hydrochloric acid under HS 2806.10?
The classification of 'Hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid)' under HS 2806.10 is generally straightforward as it specifically covers this chemical compound. The primary criterion is the chemical identity of the product. It is crucial to ensure that the product is indeed hydrogen chloride in aqueous solution (hydrochloric acid) and not a mixture or preparation where hydrochloric acid is merely an ingredient and the product takes on the character of another heading. Purity levels, concentration, and intended use are generally not determinative for this specific heading, but rather for its identity as hydrochloric acid. WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 confirm the inclusion of aqueous solutions of hydrogen chloride in this heading.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing hydrochloric acid under HS 2806.10?
Beyond standard import documentation such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of hydrochloric acid (HS 2806.10) may face additional requirements due to its hazardous nature. These can include: a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) detailing chemical properties, hazards, and handling instructions; compliance with dangerous goods regulations (e.g., IMDG Code for sea, IATA DGR for air, ADR for road) including proper labeling and packaging; and potentially permits or licenses from environmental or chemical control authorities in the importing country. If claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin or origin declaration is also essential.
Are there any specific import restrictions or regulatory considerations for hydrochloric acid (HS 2806.10)?
Yes, due to its corrosive nature and use in various industries, hydrochloric acid (HS 2806.10) is subject to specific import restrictions and regulatory oversight in many countries. These can include: environmental regulations concerning storage, handling, and disposal; chemical control laws (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU) that may require registration or notification; and regulations related to precursor chemicals if the concentration or quantity could be diverted for illicit uses, although hydrochloric acid is not typically a primary precursor for controlled substances. Importers must ensure compliance with all national and local regulations governing hazardous chemicals and industrial chemicals.