HS 282520 Lithium oxide and hydroxide
Quick Answer: HS 282520 covers lithium oxide and lithium hydroxide, essential inorganic chemical compounds primarily used in battery manufacturing, ceramics, and as a strong base in various industrial processes. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the specific form and purity is crucial for accurate classification. In the UK, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is generally 4.00% ad valorem. The EU applies an MFN rate of 5.30% ad valorem. The US MFN rate is 3.7% ad valorem, with significant duty-free opportunities under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for eligible goods from countries like Australia, Korea, and Mexico. Importers should verify origin and specific product details to leverage these preferential rates.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2825200010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2825200000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2825200090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2825200090 | 5.30 % | — | — |
| 2825200000 | 5.30 % | — | — |
| 2825200010 | 5.30 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2825200000 | 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 2825.20?
Imports of Lithium oxide and hydroxide 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 282520 cover?
This subheading covers lithium oxide (Li₂O) and lithium hydroxide (LiOH), including anhydrous and monohydrate forms. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, specifically Chapter 28, Heading 2825 encompasses hydrides, nitrides, azides, silicides, and borides, as well as other inorganic bases and metal oxides. Subheading 282520 specifically isolates the compounds of lithium in these forms, which are critical in various industrial applications, including battery manufacturing, ceramics, and greases. Official interpretations from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system align with this scope, ensuring consistent global classification for these essential chemical products.
What falls outside HS 282520?
The following products are excluded from HS 282520: lithium carbonates (Li₂CO₃), which are classified under HS 28369100, and lithium peroxides (Li₂O₂), which fall under HS 28164000 as oxides of magnesium, strontium, or barium, or other rare-earth metals. Additionally, complex lithium compounds, such as lithium niobate or lithium tantalate, which are often used in optics and electronics, are typically classified under more specific headings based on their chemical composition and primary function, rather than as simple oxides or hydroxides. Mixtures containing lithium oxide or hydroxide, where the lithium compound is not the predominant or essential character-imparting component, may also be excluded and classified elsewhere based on the nature of the mixture.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 282520?
A common error is misclassifying other lithium compounds, such as lithium carbonate, under HS 282520 due to a general understanding of "lithium chemicals." Importers sometimes overlook the specific chemical distinction between oxides/hydroxides and carbonates, leading to incorrect tariff assignments. Another mistake involves classifying lithium compounds that are part of a prepared mixture or article, rather than pure or commercially pure lithium oxide or hydroxide, under this subheading. According to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, classification must be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. GRI 3(b) would apply if lithium oxide or hydroxide were part of a mixture, requiring classification by the material or component that gives the mixture its essential character.
How should importers classify products under HS 282520?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 282520 involves verifying the precise chemical identity of the lithium compound. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the chemical name (e.g., lithium oxide, lithium hydroxide monohydrate) and purity. This documentation is crucial for confirming that the product is indeed lithium oxide or hydroxide and not a different lithium salt or a mixture where lithium oxide/hydroxide is not the essential component. Always cross-reference the product's chemical name and CAS number with the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTSUS, or the EU TARIC system to ensure accurate classification and compliance with international trade regulations.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS Code 2825.20 (Lithium oxide and hydroxide) in major markets?
For HS Code 2825.20, the MFN import duty rates can vary by country. For example, the United States generally applies a 3.7% ad valorem duty rate under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database shows a common customs tariff of 5.30% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.30% ad valorem duty. Other countries may have rates such as 4.00% or 25% depending on their specific tariff schedules. Importers should consult the official tariff schedule of the destination country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most current and accurate information.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for lithium oxide and hydroxide (HS 2825.20) under common free trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates, often 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for HS 2825.20 under various free trade agreements (FTAs) for eligible goods. For instance, imports into the United States may qualify for duty-free treatment under agreements such as: CAFTA-DR (D), KORUS (KR), USMCA (MX, CA), US-Australia FTA (AU), US-Chile FTA (CL), US-Colombia TPA (CO), US-Israel FTA (IL), US-Jordan FTA (JO), US-Morocco FTA (MA), US-Oman FTA (OM), US-Panama TPA (PA), US-Peru TPA (PE), US-Singapore FTA (SG), and US-Bahrain FTA (BH). Similar preferential rates exist in the EU and UK under their respective FTAs. To claim preferential treatment, goods must meet the specific rules of origin criteria outlined in the relevant trade agreement, and proper documentation, such as a certificate of origin, must be provided to customs authorities.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing between lithium oxide and lithium hydroxide under HS 2825.20?
HS 2825.20 specifically covers both 'Lithium oxide and hydroxide.' The primary classification criterion is the chemical composition of the substance. Lithium oxide (Li2O) is an inorganic compound of lithium and oxygen. Lithium hydroxide (LiOH) is an inorganic compound of lithium, oxygen, and hydrogen, typically found as an anhydrous or monohydrate form. Both fall under this single subheading, so the distinction within the code is based on their precise chemical identity. Importers should ensure their product documentation, such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS) or Certificates of Analysis (CoA), clearly identifies whether the product is lithium oxide or lithium hydroxide, as this information, while not affecting the HS code itself, is crucial for internal record-keeping and regulatory compliance.
What specific documentation is typically required by customs for importing lithium oxide and hydroxide (HS 2825.20)?
Importers of lithium oxide and hydroxide (HS 2825.20) should be prepared to provide standard customs documentation, including: a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin (if claiming preferential duty rates). Given the chemical nature of these products, additional documentation may be required for regulatory compliance, such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for hazardous materials handling and transport, and potentially permits or licenses from environmental or chemical control agencies depending on the destination country's regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU). Customs brokers can provide specific guidance based on the port of entry and current regulations.