HS 280620 Chlorosulphuric acid
Quick Answer: HS 280620 specifically covers Chlorosulphuric acid, a highly corrosive and reactive inorganic chemical compound. This acid is primarily used in the synthesis of various organic chemicals, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and pesticides, acting as a chlorinating and sulfonating agent. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. In the UK, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. The European Union (EU) applies an MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. For the United States, the MFN duty rate is 4.2% ad valorem, with a column 2 rate of 25%. However, many Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners, including Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Korea, and others, benefit from a "Free" duty rate under specific preferential programs. Due to its hazardous nature, compliance with chemical safety regulations (e.g., REACH in the EU, TSCA in the US) is crucial in addition to customs clearance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2806200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2806200000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2806200000 | 4.2% | 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 2806.20?
Imports of Chlorosulphuric acid 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 14 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 280620 cover?
This subheading covers chlorosulphuric acid, also known as chlorosulfonic acid, a chemical compound with the formula HSO3Cl. It is a colorless to light yellow fuming liquid with a pungent odor, primarily used in organic synthesis, as a sulfating agent, and in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and detergents. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature specifically identifies "Chlorosulphuric acid" under this 6-digit subheading, aligning with definitions found in official tariff schedules such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system, which both precisely list this chemical compound without further subdivision at the 6-digit level, ensuring consistent global classification for this specific chemical. Its primary characteristic is the presence of a sulfuryl chloride group (-SO2Cl) attached to a hydroxyl group.
What falls outside HS 280620?
The following products are excluded from HS 280620: sulfuric acid (H2SO4), which is classified under HS 2807.11 or 2807.19, and oleum (fuming sulfuric acid), also falling under HS 2807.11 or 2807.19, as these are distinct chemical compounds despite their sulfur content. Similarly, sulfuryl chloride (SO2Cl2), a related but different compound used as a chlorinating agent, is classified under HS 2812.10. Furthermore, mixtures containing chlorosulphuric acid but where another component imparts the essential character, or where the mixture is specifically provided for elsewhere, would be excluded based on General Interpretative Rule 3. For instance, a formulated chemical product where chlorosulphuric acid is merely an ingredient would likely be classified according to its primary function or other constituent.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 280620?
A common error is misclassifying chlorosulphuric acid as sulfuric acid (HS 2807) or sulfuryl chloride (HS 2812.10) due to their similar chemical elements or industrial applications. Importers might incorrectly assume that any sulfur-containing acid falls under a broader sulfuric acid category, neglecting the specific chemical structure and nomenclature. This oversight can lead to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties. Another mistake involves classifying mixtures containing chlorosulphuric acid solely under HS 280620 when, according to General Interpretative Rule 3(b), the essential character of the mixture is imparted by another component, or when the product is a prepared chemical specifically provided for elsewhere in the nomenclature, requiring careful analysis of the product's composition and intended use.
How should importers classify products under HS 280620?
The correct procedure for classifying chlorosulphuric acid involves first identifying the precise chemical name and formula (HSO3Cl) from product specifications, safety data sheets (SDS), or certificates of analysis. Importers and customs brokers should then consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28, specifically Heading 2806, to confirm that "Chlorosulphuric acid" is explicitly listed under subheading 2806.20. Cross-referencing with official tariff databases like the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC for the specific country of import is crucial to ensure the 6-digit code aligns with national tariff lines and any additional sub-classifications (e.g., 8-digit or 10-digit codes). If there is any doubt, obtaining a binding tariff information (BTI) ruling from the relevant customs authority is the most reliable method to ensure compliance and avoid classification errors, providing legal certainty for future imports of the same product.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Chlorosulphuric acid (HS 2806.20) in the United States, and are there any common preferential rates?
For imports into the United States, Chlorosulphuric acid (HS 2806.20.00.00) is generally subject to an MFN (Normal Trade Relations) duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). However, many countries are eligible for preferential duty treatment. For instance, goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) often qualify for a Free (0.00%) duty rate. This includes countries such as 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 verify the specific country of origin and applicable trade agreement to claim preferential treatment, typically requiring a certificate of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for Chlorosulphuric acid under HS 2806.20, and how does it differ from other inorganic acids?
Chlorosulphuric acid is specifically classified under HS subheading 2806.20. This classification is precise because it identifies a distinct chemical compound: HSO3Cl. The primary criterion is its chemical identity and composition. It is a halogenated derivative of sulfuric acid. It differs from other inorganic acids, such as sulfuric acid (HS 2807.00) or hydrochloric acid (HS 2806.10), by its unique chemical formula and properties, specifically the presence of both chlorine and sulfuryl groups. Customs authorities, referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, will confirm the chemical identity to ensure correct classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing Chlorosulphuric acid (HS 2806.20), considering its chemical nature?
Given that Chlorosulphuric acid is a corrosive chemical, importers should be prepared to provide standard customs documentation along with specific chemical-related information. Essential documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and if claiming preferential duty rates, a certificate of origin (e.g., FTA certificate). Additionally, due to its hazardous nature, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is often required by regulatory agencies (e.g., EPA or OSHA in the U.S.) and may be requested by customs for risk assessment or to ensure compliance with chemical import regulations. Importers should also verify any specific import permits or declarations required by environmental or chemical control authorities in the destination country.
Are there any significant trade agreements or special provisions that offer duty relief for Chlorosulphuric acid (HS 2806.20) in major markets like the EU or UK?
Yes, significant trade agreements can offer duty relief for Chlorosulphuric acid (HS 2806.20) in markets like the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK). For imports into the EU, the Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) generally applies an MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem for HS 2806.20.00. However, goods originating from countries with preferential agreements, such as those under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or various FTAs (e.g., with Canada, Japan, South Korea), may qualify for a 0.00% or reduced duty rate. Similarly, for the UK Trade Tariff, the MFN duty rate is typically 5.50% ad valorem, but numerous trade agreements (e.g., with the EU, Japan, Korea, Australia) allow for 0.00% duty. Importers must ensure they have valid proof of origin to claim these preferential rates, as specified by the respective trade agreement rules of origin.