HS 281830 Aluminium hydroxide
Quick Answer: HS code 281830 specifically covers Aluminium hydroxide, a chemical compound widely used in various industries. This includes its application as a flame retardant filler, an antacid in pharmaceuticals, and a raw material for producing other aluminium compounds. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff shows rates of 4.00% ad valorem, with some preferential rates at 0.00%. The EU TARIC system indicates a general rate of 5.50% ad valorem, also with potential 0.00% preferential rates depending on origin. In the US, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) lists a duty rate of 1.1¢/kg, though some specific subheadings may be duty-free. It is crucial to verify the exact duty rate based on the product's specific characteristics and origin, leveraging free trade agreements where applicable to optimize costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2818300020 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2818300090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2818300000 | — | — | — |
| 2818300030 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2818300020 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2818300000 | — | — | — |
| 2818300030 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2818300090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2818300000 | 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.
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How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 281830 cover?
This subheading covers aluminium hydroxide, a chemical compound with the formula Al(OH)₃. It specifically includes the chemically defined compound, whether in anhydrous or hydrated forms, provided it meets the purity requirements for inorganic chemicals of Chapter 28. According to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSENs) for Heading 2818, this subheading encompasses aluminium hydroxide used in various applications such as flame retardants, antacids, and as a raw material in the production of other aluminium compounds. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this WCO definition, classifying pure or commercially pure aluminium hydroxide here.
What falls outside HS 281830?
The following products are excluded from HS 281830: natural cryolite (sodium hexafluoroaluminate), which is classified under HS 2826.30.00; activated alumina, which falls under HS 2818.20.00; and artificial corundum, classified under HS 2818.10.00. Additionally, bauxite, a naturally occurring ore that is a primary source of aluminium and often contains aluminium hydroxide, is classified under HS 2606.00.00 as an aluminium ore. Mixtures containing aluminium hydroxide but formulated for specific end-uses, such as pharmaceutical preparations (e.g., antacid tablets), would be classified in Chapter 30 or other relevant chapters based on their composition and intended use, rather than as a bulk chemical.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 281830?
A common error is misclassifying bauxite as aluminium hydroxide, or vice versa. Bauxite, being a natural ore, is correctly classified under HS 2606.00.00, whereas HS 281830 is reserved for the chemically defined compound, typically produced through industrial processes. Another mistake involves classifying activated alumina (HS 2818.20.00) under this subheading, despite its distinct physical and chemical properties and uses as an adsorbent or catalyst support. Importers must apply General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, ensuring the product's chemical identity aligns precisely with the subheading's description.
How should importers classify products under HS 281830?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 281830 involves verifying the chemical identity and purity of the aluminium hydroxide. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer to confirm the product's chemical composition and ensure it is indeed aluminium hydroxide (Al(OH)₃) and not a mixture or an ore. Reviewing Chapter 28 Notes, particularly Note 1, which defines "chemically defined" compounds, is crucial. If the product is a pure or commercially pure aluminium hydroxide, then HS 281830 is appropriate. For the US, the duty rate is typically 3.5% ad valorem, as per the USITC HTS. For the EU, the TARIC system generally shows a 0% duty rate for most origins, but specific origin rules and anti-dumping duties should always be checked.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for importing Aluminium Hydroxide (HS 2818.30) into the United States?
For imports into the United States, the MFN (Normal Trade Relations - NTR) duty rate for Aluminium Hydroxide classified under HTSUS subheading 2818.30.00.00 is 4.0% ad valorem. This rate applies to goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has NTR status, provided no specific preferential trade agreement applies. This information is based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) as published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC).
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Aluminium Hydroxide (HS 2818.30) under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates can apply depending on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), qualifying Aluminium Hydroxide originating from Mexico or Canada would be eligible for a 'Free' duty rate when imported into the U.S., provided all rules of origin are met. Similarly, other Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) the U.S. has with various countries may also offer duty-free or reduced duty rates. Importers should consult the specific FTA text and the HTSUS 'Special' column for applicable program indicators and ensure proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, is available.
What are the key classification criteria for Aluminium Hydroxide under HS 2818.30, and how does it differ from other aluminium compounds?
HS 2818.30 specifically covers 'Aluminium hydroxide'. The primary criterion for classification here is the chemical composition: it must be aluminium hydroxide (Al(OH)3). This heading is distinct from other aluminium compounds found in Chapter 28, such as aluminium oxide (alumina) under HS 2818.10 or artificial corundum under HS 2818.20. The key differentiator is the presence of hydroxyl groups bonded to the aluminium. Importers should ensure that product specifications, chemical analysis reports, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) clearly identify the substance as aluminium hydroxide to support this classification, adhering to the General Interpretive Rules (GIRs) of the Harmonized System, particularly GIR 1 and 6.
What documentation is typically required by customs authorities for importing Aluminium Hydroxide (HS 2818.30)?
Standard import documentation for Aluminium Hydroxide (HS 2818.30) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs entry form (e.g., CBP Form 7501 in the U.S.). If claiming a preferential duty rate under a Free Trade Agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin) is mandatory. For chemical products, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is often requested by customs or other regulatory agencies (e.g., EPA in the U.S.) for risk assessment and compliance verification. Importers should also be prepared to provide product specifications or chemical analysis reports if requested to confirm the classification.
What is the duty rate for Aluminium Hydroxide (HS 2818.30) when imported into the European Union and the United Kingdom?
For imports into the European Union, the MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rate for Aluminium Hydroxide (TARIC code 2818300000) is 5.5% ad valorem. This rate applies to goods originating from countries outside of preferential trade agreements. For imports into the United Kingdom, the MFN duty rate for Aluminium Hydroxide (commodity code 2818300000) is also 5.5% ad valorem. Both the EU TARIC and the UK Trade Tariff provide for preferential rates under various trade agreements (e.g., 'Free' for qualifying goods from certain FTA partners). Importers should consult the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff for the most current rates and specific preferential arrangements applicable to their country of origin.