HS 282300 For uses other than the production of white graphic inks for printing

What products does HS 282300 cover?

This subheading covers titanium oxides (TiO2) that are not intended for use in the production of white graphic inks for printing. Specifically, the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2823 clarify that this heading encompasses titanium dioxides, which are primarily used as white pigments. The distinction for subheading 282300, as reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and EU TARIC, is based on the *intended use* of the titanium dioxide, differentiating it from the specific application of white graphic inks. This includes titanium dioxide used in paints, plastics, paper, ceramics, and other industrial applications where its opacifying and whitening properties are desired, but not for the narrow purpose of graphic ink production.

What falls outside HS 282300?

The following products are excluded from HS 282300: titanium oxides specifically intended for the production of white graphic inks for printing. While the core chemical compound, titanium dioxide, remains the same, its classification under a different subheading within 2823 (if such a distinction exists in a particular tariff schedule, e.g., a national subdivision) would be dictated by the declared end-use. For instance, if a specific national tariff schedule had a separate subheading for "Titanium oxides for white graphic inks," then products declared for that specific use would fall there. Furthermore, other titanium compounds that are not oxides, or titanium metal itself, would be classified elsewhere, such as under Chapter 28 for other inorganic compounds or Chapter 81 for titanium metal and articles thereof, respectively.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 282300?

A common error is misinterpreting the "intended use" criterion for HS 282300, particularly when the titanium dioxide is a general-purpose grade. Importers sometimes fail to accurately declare or document the specific end-use, leading to incorrect classification. This often involves applying General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, but then overlooking the specific wording of the subheading that introduces an end-use condition. Without clear documentation or a binding ruling confirming the non-ink use, customs authorities may challenge the classification. Another mistake is assuming all titanium dioxide automatically falls here, without considering if a specific grade or declaration points to the excluded use.

How should importers classify products under HS 282300?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 282300 requires importers and customs brokers to meticulously document the intended use of the titanium dioxide. This involves obtaining declarations from the buyer or end-user confirming that the product will *not* be used for the production of white graphic inks for printing. Such documentation should be maintained as part of import records and be readily available for customs inspection. Furthermore, reviewing the product's technical specifications, safety data sheets (SDS), and marketing materials can help corroborate the declared end-use. If there is any ambiguity regarding the intended use, seeking a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, national customs authorities in the EU) is highly recommended to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties or delays.