HS 283340 Peroxosulphates (persulphates)
Quick Answer: HS Code 283340 covers peroxosulphates, commonly known as persulphates. These are chemical compounds containing the peroxosulphate ion, primarily used as oxidizing agents in various industrial applications such as polymerization initiators, etching solutions, and hair bleaching formulations. Key examples include ammonium persulphate, potassium persulphate, and sodium persulphate. Duty rates for this classification vary significantly by jurisdiction. In the UK, the general Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem. The EU applies an MFN rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The United States exhibits a broader range, with MFN rates up to 25% ad valorem, but also offers duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and preferential programs for eligible countries (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). Importers should verify specific product classifications and country of origin to leverage potential duty reductions.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2833400000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2833400000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2833402000 | 3.7% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2833406010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 2833406050 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 283340 | — | — | — |
| 28334060 | 3.1% | Free (17 programs) | — |
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 2833.40?
Imports of Peroxosulphates (persulphates) 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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 283340 cover?
This subheading covers peroxosulphates, commonly known as persulphates, which are chemical compounds containing the peroxosulphate anion (S2O8^2-). These inorganic salts are primarily used as oxidizing agents, initiators for polymerization reactions, and bleaching agents. Examples include ammonium peroxodisulphate (ammonium persulphate), potassium peroxodisulphate (potassium persulphate), and sodium peroxodisulphate (sodium persulphate). The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2833 specifically identify peroxosulphates as distinct from other sulphates, covering their pure forms and aqueous solutions, provided they maintain the chemical identity of a peroxosulphate. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and EU TARIC system align with this definition, classifying these specific chemical compounds here.
What falls outside HS 283340?
The following products are excluded from HS 283340: sulphates that are not peroxosulphates, such as sodium sulphate (classified under 2833.11 or 2833.19), magnesium sulphate (2833.21), or aluminum sulphate (2833.22). Additionally, organic peroxides, even if they contain a sulphate group, are excluded and typically fall under Chapter 29, specifically heading 2909 for organic peroxides. Mixtures containing peroxosulphates but formulated for specific end-uses, such as certain cleaning preparations or cosmetic preparations, would be classified according to their primary function and composition under other chapters, such as Chapter 34 or 33, respectively, if the peroxosulphate is not the sole or principal active ingredient.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 283340?
A common error is misclassifying other types of sulphates as peroxosulphates, particularly if the product name is ambiguous or if the chemical distinction is not carefully verified. For instance, a product simply labeled "sulphate" without specifying "peroxo" or "persulphate" should be scrutinized to ensure it is not a standard sulphate of Heading 2833. Another mistake involves classifying mixtures containing peroxosulphates under 283340 when the mixture's character is imparted by other components or when it constitutes a preparation for a specific use. General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1 dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, while GRI 3(b) would apply for mixtures, prioritizing the component that gives the mixture its essential character.
How should importers classify products under HS 283340?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 283340 involves first verifying the precise chemical identity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a detailed Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, explicitly confirming the presence of a peroxosulphate (persulphate) compound, such as ammonium persulphate or sodium persulphate. Ensure the product is not a mixture where the peroxosulphate is merely a minor component or where the product is clearly a preparation for a specific end-use. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2833 and cross-reference with the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or EU TARIC for any specific national or regional interpretations. If in doubt, consider requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2833.40 (Peroxosulphates (persulphates)) in key markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for products classified under HS 2833.40 can vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common customs duty of 5.50% ad valorem for many peroxosulphates. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.50% ad valorem rate. Some countries may apply higher rates, such as 25% in specific circumstances or for certain product types within this heading, while others might be around 4.00% ad valorem. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date information, referencing the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff as primary sources.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for peroxosulphates (HS 2833.40) under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including duty-free treatment, are often available for products classified under HS 2833.40, depending on the country of origin and applicable free trade agreements (FTAs) or Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programs. For example, the United States grants duty-free access (indicated by 'Free' in the tariff schedule) for goods originating from countries with which it has FTAs, 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). Similar preferential treatment may exist under agreements like the EU's FTAs (e.g., with D, E) or GSP schemes. To claim preferential duty rates, importers must ensure the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the relevant trade agreement and possess the required Certificates of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, Form A, or a declaration of origin).
What are the key classification criteria for peroxosulphates under HS 2833.40, and how do I avoid misclassification?
HS 2833.40 specifically covers 'Peroxosulphates (persulphates)'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity of the substance. This heading includes salts of peroxosulphuric acid, such as ammonium peroxosulphate, potassium peroxosulphate, and sodium peroxosulphate. To ensure correct classification and avoid misclassification, importers and customs brokers should: 1. Obtain a detailed chemical analysis or specification sheet from the manufacturer, clearly identifying the chemical name, CAS number, and purity. 2. Verify that the substance is indeed a peroxosulphate and not a different type of sulphate or other inorganic salt. 3. Consult the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 and heading 28.33 for precise guidance on the scope and exclusions. If there is any ambiguity, consider requesting a binding tariff information (BTI) ruling from the customs authorities in the importing country.
What documentation is typically required by customs for the import of peroxosulphates (HS 2833.40)?
For the import of peroxosulphates under HS 2833.40, standard customs documentation is required, which typically includes: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the goods, value, and terms of sale. 2. Packing List: Providing details of the contents of each package. 3. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: The transport document. 4. Certificate of Origin: Essential for claiming preferential duty rates under FTAs or GSP schemes. 5. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS): While not always a direct customs requirement for classification, it is crucial for transport, handling, and often requested by chemical regulatory agencies. 6. Chemical Analysis Report or Technical Data Sheet: To substantiate the chemical identity for classification purposes. Importers should also be aware of any specific national chemical control regulations or import licensing requirements that may apply to these substances in the destination country.