HS 282570 Molybdenum oxides and hydroxides

Quick Answer: HS Code 282570 covers molybdenum oxides and hydroxides, which are inorganic chemical compounds of molybdenum and oxygen, or molybdenum, oxygen, and hydrogen. These compounds are crucial in various industrial applications, including catalysts, pigments, and the production of molybdenum metal and alloys. Importers and customs brokers should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.30% ad valorem. The US tariff schedule for this heading is more complex, with a general rate of 20.5% ad valorem, but also includes a 3.2% rate for certain subheadings and numerous Free (0%) rates under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and special programs (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). Accurate classification and origin determination are essential to leverage preferential duty treatment where applicable.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2825700020 4.00 %
2825700000 4.00 %
2825700090 4.00 %

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2825700000 5.30 %
2825700020 5.30 %
2825700090 5.30 %

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2825700000 3.2% 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 2825.70?

Imports of Molybdenum oxides and hydroxides 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 282570 cover?

This subheading covers molybdenum oxides and hydroxides, which are inorganic chemical compounds of molybdenum and oxygen, or molybdenum, oxygen, and hydrogen. Specifically, it includes compounds such as molybdenum trioxide (MoO3), also known as molybdic anhydride, which is a white to yellowish-green crystalline powder primarily used in the production of molybdenum metal and as a catalyst. It also encompasses other oxides like molybdenum dioxide (MoO2) and various hydrated forms of molybdenum oxides. The scope is defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2825, which broadly covers hydrides, nitrides, azides, silicides, and borides, as well as other inorganic compounds of non-metals or metals not elsewhere specified, with specific subheadings for particular elements like molybdenum. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and EU TARIC system align with this definition, ensuring consistent application.

What falls outside HS 282570?

The following products are excluded from HS 282570: molybdates and peroxomolybdates, which are salts of molybdic acid and are classified under HS 2841. For instance, ammonium dimolybdate or sodium molybdate, despite containing molybdenum and oxygen, are specifically provided for in HS 2841. Additionally, molybdenum ores and concentrates, such as molybdenite, are classified under Chapter 26, specifically HS 2613. Molybdenum metal, whether in powder, unwrought, or wrought forms, is classified under Chapter 81, specifically HS 8102. Complex inorganic pigments containing molybdenum, such as molybdenum red (a co-precipitated lead chromate-molybdate pigment), are classified under Chapter 32. These distinctions are crucial for accurate classification, preventing misclassification of downstream or upstream products.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 282570?

A common error is misclassifying molybdates as molybdenum oxides or hydroxides, leading to incorrect duty rates and compliance issues. For example, ammonium heptamolybdate, often referred to as ammonium paramolybdate, is a molybdate salt and correctly falls under HS 2841. Another frequent mistake involves classifying molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), which is a sulfide, under this heading; however, sulfides are specifically classified under HS 2830. Importers sometimes overlook the precise chemical definition, applying a broader interpretation of "molybdenum compounds." Adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is paramount. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2825 and 2841 is essential to differentiate between oxides/hydroxides and salts.

How should importers classify products under HS 282570?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 282570 involves a meticulous review of the product's chemical composition and form. Importers and customs brokers should first obtain a detailed chemical analysis or specification sheet from the manufacturer, clearly identifying the compound as a molybdenum oxide or hydroxide. Verify that the product is not a molybdate salt (HS 2841), a sulfide (HS 2830), or molybdenum metal (HS 8102). Cross-reference the chemical name and CAS number with the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, and the EU TARIC database to confirm the specific subheading. If uncertainty persists, consider requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, HMRC in the UK) to ensure legal certainty and avoid potential penalties for misclassification. This proactive approach minimizes compliance risks.

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FAQ

What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2825.70 (Molybdenum oxides and hydroxides) in key markets?

The MFN duty rates for HS 2825.70 vary by importing country. For example, the United States applies a rate of 4.0% ad valorem under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common customs tariff duty of 5.3% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a duty rate of 5.3% ad valorem. Importers should always verify the current MFN rate with the official tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff.

Are there any preferential duty rates available for Molybdenum oxides and hydroxides (HS 2825.70) under free trade agreements or special programs?

Yes, preferential duty rates, including duty-free treatment, are available for HS 2825.70 under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and special programs, provided the goods meet the respective rules of origin. For instance, imports into the United States from 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) may be eligible for duty-free entry (0% ad valorem) under specific FTAs. Similarly, the EU and UK have preferential arrangements with various trading partners. Importers must ensure they have the correct origin documentation (e.g., a certificate of origin) to claim these preferential rates.

What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing Molybdenum oxides and hydroxides under HS 2825.70 from other molybdenum compounds?

HS 2825.70 specifically covers 'Molybdenum oxides and hydroxides.' The primary classification criterion is the chemical composition, focusing on whether the substance is an oxide (e.g., molybdenum trioxide, MoO3) or a hydroxide of molybdenum. This differentiates it from other molybdenum compounds classified elsewhere in Chapter 28 or 29. For instance, molybdenum sulfides would fall under HS 2824, and certain complex molybdates might be classified under HS 2841. Accurate chemical analysis and product specifications are crucial for correct classification, aligning with the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, Section VI, Chapter 28.

What documentation is typically required for the import of Molybdenum oxides and hydroxides (HS 2825.70)?

Standard import documentation for HS 2825.70 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration form. To claim preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., FTA certificate, GSP Form A) is essential. Depending on the specific use or purity, additional documentation such as a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) may be required by regulatory bodies for health, safety, or environmental compliance. Importers should consult the specific import requirements of the destination country's customs authority and relevant chemical control agencies.

Are there any specific trade restrictions or special import requirements for Molybdenum oxides and hydroxides (HS 2825.70) due to their chemical nature?

While molybdenum oxides and hydroxides are generally not subject to widespread trade restrictions like certain hazardous chemicals or dual-use goods, importers should be aware of potential specific national regulations. For example, some countries may have reporting requirements or import licenses for certain chemical substances, especially if they are precursors for other regulated materials or if they exceed certain purity thresholds. It is advisable to check with the relevant environmental protection agencies, chemical control authorities, and customs administrations in the importing country for any specific national regulations, licensing requirements, or reporting obligations pertaining to industrial chemicals.