HS 283230 Thiosulphates
Quick Answer: HS code 283230 covers thiosulphates, which are chemical compounds containing the thiosulphate anion (S2O3^2-). These salts are commonly used in photography as fixing agents, in water treatment as dechlorinating agents, and in various industrial applications. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the specific thiosulphate compound is crucial for accurate classification. Duty rates vary by jurisdiction: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50% ad valorem. In the US, rates range from 3.1% to 4.5% ad valorem, with many products eligible for duty-free entry under various preferential trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). Importers should verify product-specific eligibility for these programs to optimize landed costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2832300000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2832300000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 283230 | — | — | — |
| 2832305000 | 3.1% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2832301000 | 1.5% | 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 2832.30?
Imports of Thiosulphates 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 15 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 283230 cover?
This subheading covers thiosulphates, which are salts of thiosulphuric acid (H₂S₂O₃). Specifically, it encompasses various inorganic thiosulphate compounds, such as sodium thiosulphate (often used as a photographic fixer or in water treatment), ammonium thiosulphate, and potassium thiosulphate. These chemical compounds are defined by the presence of the S₂O₃²⁻ anion. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2832 confirm that this subheading is dedicated to these specific salts, distinguishing them from sulphites and other sulphur compounds. Both the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system align with this definition, classifying all chemically defined thiosulphates under this specific six-digit code.
What falls outside HS 283230?
The following products are excluded from HS 283230: sulphites (salts of sulphurous acid, H₂SO₃), which are classified under HS 2832.10 or 2832.20 depending on the cation. For example, sodium sulphite is classified under HS 2832.10. Additionally, sulphates (salts of sulphuric acid, H₂SO₄) fall under HS 2833. Mixtures containing thiosulphates but formulated for specific uses, such as certain photographic preparations or medicaments, would be classified according to their primary function and composition under other chapters, such as Chapter 37 for photographic chemicals or Chapter 30 for pharmaceuticals, as per Section Notes and Chapter Notes of the HS.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 283230?
A common error is confusing thiosulphates with sulphites or sulphates due to similar nomenclature and chemical elements. Importers sometimes misclassify sodium sulphite (HS 2832.10) or sodium sulphate (HS 2833.11) as sodium thiosulphate (HS 2832.30), leading to incorrect duty assessments and potential penalties. This mistake often arises from insufficient attention to the precise chemical name and formula. Proper classification requires careful verification of the chemical structure to ensure the presence of the S₂O₃²⁻ anion, as mandated by 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.
How should importers classify products under HS 283230?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 283230 involves first verifying the precise chemical identity of the product. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the chemical name (e.g., sodium thiosulphate) and its Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number. This documentation confirms the presence of the thiosulphate anion. Next, consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2832 to confirm the scope. Finally, cross-reference with the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS or EU TARIC) to ensure the six-digit code 2832.30 is correctly applied, thereby ensuring compliance with customs regulations and accurate duty calculation.
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2832.30 (Thiosulphates) in major markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for Thiosulphates (HS 2832.30) can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States applies a general MFN duty rate of 3.1% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.50% ad valorem MFN rate. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff, for the most current and precise rates applicable at the time of import.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Thiosulphates (HS 2832.30) under common free trade agreements or special programs?
Yes, preferential duty rates, often 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for Thiosulphates (HS 2832.30) when imported under various free trade agreements (FTAs) or special programs, provided the goods meet the respective rules of origin. For imports into the United States, 'Free' duty rates are often applicable for goods originating 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) under their respective FTAs. Similar preferential treatment may exist for imports into the EU or UK from partner countries. Importers must ensure they have the correct documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for Thiosulphates under HS 2832.30, and what common errors should be avoided?
HS code 2832.30 specifically covers 'Thiosulphates'. This heading is precise, falling under Chapter 28 for 'Inorganic chemicals; organic or inorganic compounds of precious metals, of rare-earth metals, of radio-active elements or of isotopes'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity of the substance as a thiosulphate. Common errors to avoid include misclassifying mixtures containing thiosulphates under this heading if the thiosulphate is not the predominant or essential character-imparting component, or confusing thiosulphates with other sulphur compounds like sulphates (HS 2833) or sulphites (HS 2832.20). Importers should ensure their product's chemical name and CAS number (if available) confirm it is a thiosulphate to ensure accurate classification.
What specific documentation is typically required for the import of Thiosulphates (HS 2832.30) to ensure smooth customs clearance?
For the import of Thiosulphates (HS 2832.30), standard customs documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. To claim preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., FTA certificate like a USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1, or GSP Form A) is essential. A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is highly recommended, and often required by regulatory bodies, as it provides crucial information about the chemical's properties, hazards, and safe handling, assisting both customs and other government agencies (OGAs) in their assessment. Depending on the specific thiosulphate and its end-use, additional permits or licenses from agencies such as environmental protection agencies or chemical control authorities might be necessary.