HS 281910 Chromium trioxide
Quick Answer: HS code 281910 specifically covers Chromium trioxide, also known as chromic acid or chromic anhydride. This inorganic chemical is a dark red, crystalline solid primarily used in chrome plating, wood preservation, and as an oxidizing agent in organic synthesis. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. The UK Trade Tariff currently applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty. The EU TARIC system levies a 5.50% ad valorem duty. For the United States, the general Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 25% ad valorem, but significant preferential duty rates, including "Free," are available under various trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). Proper documentation is crucial to claim these preferential rates.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2819100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2819100000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2819100000 | 3.7% | 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 2819.10?
Imports of Chromium trioxide 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 281910 cover?
This subheading covers chromium trioxide, also known as chromic acid or chromic anhydride, a chemical compound with the formula CrO₃. It is typically presented as dark purplish-red flakes or granules. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature for Heading 2819 specifically lists "Chromium oxides and hydroxides," and subheading 2819.10 precisely identifies "Chromium trioxide." This classification is consistently applied across major customs territories, including the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system, which both designate 2819.10.00 for this specific chemical compound, ensuring uniform global classification for this distinct chromium oxide.
What falls outside HS 281910?
The following products are excluded from HS 281910: other chromium oxides and hydroxides, such as chromium(III) oxide (Cr₂O₃), which is classified under HS 2819.90. This distinction is crucial as Cr₂O₃ is a green pigment, whereas CrO₃ is a strong oxidizing agent used in chrome plating and organic synthesis. Additionally, chromium compounds that are not oxides or hydroxides, such as chromium sulfates or chromates, fall under other specific subheadings within Chapter 28 or Chapter 29, depending on their chemical structure. For instance, potassium dichromate, while containing chromium, is a salt and would be classified under HS 2841.50.00, not as a chromium oxide.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 281910?
A common error is misclassifying other chromium oxides or hydroxides as chromium trioxide, particularly chromium(III) oxide (Cr₂O₃), due to a general understanding of "chromium oxide." Importers might incorrectly assume all chromium oxides fall under the primary subheading. However, General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1 dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. In this case, the specific wording "Chromium trioxide" in 2819.10 is paramount, distinguishing it from the residual "Other" category under 2819.90 for other chromium oxides and hydroxides. Failing to differentiate between the specific chemical formulas and common names can lead to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties.
How should importers classify products under HS 281910?
The correct procedure for classifying chromium trioxide involves first identifying the precise chemical name and formula (CrO₃). Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, specifically Chapter 28, Heading 2819, and Subheading 2819.10, which explicitly names "Chromium trioxide." Verification against the national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTSUS or the EU TARIC, is essential to confirm the national eight-digit or ten-digit code. Always ensure that the product's chemical properties and intended use align with the description for chromium trioxide, and maintain technical data sheets or Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) to substantiate the classification, especially to differentiate it from other chromium compounds.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS code 2819.10 ('Chromium trioxide') in the United States?
As of the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) data, the general Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 2819.10.00.00, covering Chromium trioxide, is 3.7% ad valorem. This rate applies to imports from countries that do not have a specific preferential trade agreement with the U.S. or are not subject to special trade programs. Importers should always verify the current rate on the official USITC HTSUS website for the most up-to-date information.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for 'Chromium trioxide' under HS 2819.10, and which trade agreements apply?
Yes, preferential duty rates are available for Chromium trioxide (HS 2819.10) under various U.S. free trade agreements and special programs. For eligible imports, the duty rate can be 'Free' (0.00% ad valorem) under agreements with 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). Additionally, programs like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) might offer duty-free treatment for eligible developing countries. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin and provide proper documentation (e.g., a certificate of origin) to claim these preferential rates. Consult the specific trade agreement's text and the HTSUS 'Special' column for exact program indicators and requirements.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Chromium trioxide' under HS 2819.10?
HS code 2819.10 specifically covers 'Chromium trioxide,' which is also known as chromic acid or chromic anhydride. The classification hinges on the chemical identity of the product. It must be chemically pure chromium trioxide (CrO3). This heading is found within Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Inorganic chemicals; organic or inorganic compounds of precious metals, of rare-earth metals, of radioactive elements or of isotopes.' The '10' subheading specifically isolates chromium trioxide from other chromium oxides and hydroxides (2819.90). Importers should ensure their product's chemical composition matches this description to avoid misclassification, which can lead to penalties or delays. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is often crucial for verifying the chemical identity.
What documentation is typically required for importing 'Chromium trioxide' (HS 2819.10)?
Standard import documentation for Chromium trioxide (HS 2819.10) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and potentially a customs bond. Given that chromium trioxide is a chemical, additional regulatory documentation may be required. This could include a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazardous materials handling, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm chemical purity and composition, and compliance with environmental regulations (e.g., EPA in the U.S.) or chemical control laws (e.g., TSCA in the U.S., REACH in the EU). If claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., Free Trade Agreement certificate) is mandatory. Importers should consult with their customs broker and relevant government agencies to ensure all specific documentation and regulatory requirements are met prior to shipment.