HS 282612 Fluorides
Quick Answer: HS code 282612 specifically covers fluorides of aluminum, which are inorganic chemical compounds primarily used in the aluminum smelting industry as a flux to lower the melting point of alumina. This classification excludes other fluorides and fluorine compounds. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff indicates a 0.00% duty rate, while the EU TARIC system applies a 5.30% ad valorem duty. In the United States, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) shows a 25% ad valorem duty rate for products from non-MFN countries, with a "Free" rate for MFN countries. Accurate classification is crucial to avoid discrepancies and ensure compliance with these diverse tariff structures.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2826120000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2826120000 | 5.30 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2826120000 | 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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 282612 cover?
This subheading covers fluorides of aluminum, specifically aluminum fluoride (AlF3), which is a chemical compound used in various industrial applications, primarily in the production of aluminum. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature for Heading 2826 specifies "Fluorides; fluorosilicates, fluoroaluminates and other complex fluorine salts." Subheading 2826.12 further refines this to "of aluminum," clearly indicating that only aluminum fluoride and its isomers are classified here. This aligns with definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system, which both precisely define the scope for this specific chemical compound, ensuring consistent global classification.
What falls outside HS 282612?
The following products are excluded from HS 282612: other fluorides not containing aluminum, such as sodium fluoride (classified under HS 2826.19), and complex fluorine salts that are not fluorides of aluminum, such as sodium hexafluoroaluminate (synthetic cryolite), which is classified under HS 2826.30. Additionally, natural cryolite, despite being a fluoroaluminate, is classified under Chapter 25 as a mineral, specifically HS 2529.90. Products that are mixtures containing aluminum fluoride but where the aluminum fluoride is not the predominant component, or where the mixture is prepared for a specific use elsewhere in the nomenclature, would also be excluded based on General Interpretative Rule 3.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 282612?
A common error is misclassifying other fluoride salts or complex fluoroaluminates as aluminum fluoride. For instance, synthetic cryolite (sodium hexafluoroaluminate, Na3AlF6) is frequently confused with aluminum fluoride (AlF3) due to their similar chemical components and uses in aluminum production, but synthetic cryolite correctly falls under HS 2826.30. Another mistake involves classifying mixtures containing aluminum fluoride under 2826.12 when the mixture's essential character is imparted by another component or when it constitutes a preparation of Chapter 38, necessitating careful application of General Interpretative Rule 3(b) or 3(c) to determine the correct heading and subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 282612?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 282612 involves first verifying the precise chemical identity of the product. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a detailed chemical analysis or Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the manufacturer, confirming the product is indeed aluminum fluoride (AlF3) and not another fluoride or complex fluorine salt. They should then consult the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2826, along with the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS or EU TARIC) to confirm the exact scope of subheading 2826.12. If the product is a mixture, General Interpretative Rules 1 and 3 must be applied rigorously to determine if the aluminum fluoride imparts the essential character, or if it is a preparation classified elsewhere.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for goods classified under HS 2826.12 in the United States?
For the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for goods classified under HTSUS subheading 2826.12.00.00, which specifically covers 'Fluorides of aluminum,' is 3.5% ad valorem. This rate is applied to imports from countries that do not have a specific free trade agreement or other preferential tariff treatment with the U.S. Importers should consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) provided by the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most current and authoritative information.
How do preferential trade agreements affect the duty rate for HS 2826.12 in major markets like the EU or UK?
Preferential trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS 2826.12. For instance, under many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) such as the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement or the UK-Australia FTA, 'Fluorides of aluminum' (HS 2826.12) may be eligible for a 0.00% (duty-free) rate if the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the respective agreement. Importers must ensure they have the correct origin documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration, to claim preferential treatment. Always verify the specific agreement's product-specific rules of origin and documentary requirements via the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing 'Fluorides of aluminum' under HS 2826.12 from other fluoride compounds?
HS 2826.12 specifically covers 'Fluorides of aluminum.' The primary classification criterion is the chemical composition: the product must be a fluoride compound where aluminum is the cation. This distinguishes it from other fluorides, such as ammonium fluorides (HS 2826.19) or sodium fluorides (HS 2826.19), which fall under other subheadings within 2826.19 ('Other fluorides'). Accurate chemical analysis and product specifications are crucial for correct classification. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 provide further guidance on the scope of inorganic chemicals.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or regulatory considerations for importing 'Fluorides of aluminum' (HS 2826.12)?
Beyond standard customs documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), importers of 'Fluorides of aluminum' should be aware of potential chemical-specific regulations. While not typically subject to extensive import licensing in many jurisdictions, importers should verify if the specific fluoride compound (e.g., aluminum trifluoride) is listed under any national chemical control laws (e.g., TSCA in the U.S., REACH in the EU, or similar regulations in other countries). A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is almost always required for chemical imports and provides critical information for safe handling, transport, and regulatory compliance. Customs brokers should confirm any specific agency requirements based on the destination country.