HS 283630 Sodium hydrogencarbonate (sodium bicarbonate)
Quick Answer: HS code 283630 specifically covers Sodium Hydrogencarbonate, commonly known as sodium bicarbonate or baking soda. This chemical compound is widely used across various industries, including food and beverage (as a leavening agent), pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial applications. Importers and customs brokers should note the differing duty rates across major jurisdictions. For instance, the United Kingdom applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the European Union's TARIC system shows a 5.50% ad valorem rate. In contrast, the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule indicates a "Free" duty rate for this product. These variations necessitate careful classification and duty calculation to ensure compliance and optimize supply chain costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2836300000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2836300000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2836300000 | 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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 283630 cover?
This subheading covers sodium hydrogencarbonate, commonly known as sodium bicarbonate or baking soda, which is a chemical compound with the formula NaHCO₃. It is a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature specifically identifies this chemical by its systematic name, sodium hydrogencarbonate, ensuring precise classification. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, align with this definition, encompassing all grades and purities of this specific chemical compound, whether food-grade, pharmaceutical-grade, or industrial-grade, provided it is chemically pure sodium hydrogencarbonate.
What falls outside HS 283630?
The following products are excluded from HS 283630: mixtures containing sodium bicarbonate with other ingredients, such as baking powders (typically classified under HS 2102) or antacid preparations (often found in Chapter 30 as medicaments). Similarly, sodium carbonate (washing soda), which has the formula Na₂CO₃, is classified separately under HS 283620. Preparations for use in baking that contain sodium bicarbonate but are not solely the chemical compound, such as self-raising flours, would be classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 11 or 19, depending on their composition and intended use, as they are not single chemical compounds.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 283630?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures containing sodium bicarbonate, such as baking powder, under HS 283630. This mistake often arises from failing to apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. GRI 3(b) would apply to mixtures, directing classification to the component that gives the mixture its essential character, or to the heading covering the goods which are a mixture. Therefore, a product that is not solely sodium hydrogencarbonate but a preparation containing it should not be classified here, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential compliance issues.
How should importers classify products under HS 283630?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 283630 involves first confirming that the product is chemically pure sodium hydrogencarbonate (NaHCO₃) and not a mixture or preparation. Importers and customs brokers should review the product's chemical analysis, material safety data sheet (MSDS), or certificate of analysis to verify its chemical identity and purity. If the product is indeed pure sodium hydrogencarbonate, then HS 283630 is the appropriate classification, in accordance with GRI 1. Always cross-reference with the latest official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC, to ensure accuracy and to check for any specific legal notes or rulings that might impact classification.
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS 2836.30 (Sodium hydrogencarbonate, sodium bicarbonate) in major markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for HS 2836.30 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for goods from non-preferential countries. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a 5.5% ad valorem MFN duty. Importers should always verify the current rates directly with the customs authority of the importing country (e.g., USITC, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) as rates are subject to change.
Are there any preferential duty rates or free trade agreements that offer reduced or zero duties for HS 2836.30?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including duty-free treatment, are available for HS 2836.30 under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade programs. For instance, imports into the United States from countries party to agreements like USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), or originating from certain developing countries under the GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) may qualify for a 'Free' duty rate, provided all rules of origin requirements are met. Similarly, the EU has numerous FTAs (e.g., with Korea, Japan, Canada) and preferential schemes (e.g., GSP) that can reduce or eliminate duties. Importers must ensure they have the correct origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for ensuring sodium bicarbonate falls under HS 2836.30?
HS 2836.30 specifically covers 'Sodium hydrogencarbonate (sodium bicarbonate)'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity of the product. It must be chemically pure or commercially pure sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃). This heading is quite specific and generally straightforward. It does not include preparations or mixtures where sodium bicarbonate is merely an ingredient, but rather the substance itself. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 confirm that this heading is for the specific inorganic chemical compound. Importers should have a chemical analysis or specification sheet readily available to confirm the product's identity and purity if challenged by customs authorities.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 2836.30?
Standard import documentation applies to HS 2836.30, 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., EUR.1, NAFTA/USMCA certificate, GSP Form A, or exporter's declaration) is essential. For certain end-uses or purity levels (e.g., food grade, pharmaceutical grade), additional certifications, such as Certificates of Analysis (CoA) or compliance with specific food safety or pharmaceutical regulations (e.g., FDA requirements in the US), may be required by relevant regulatory bodies beyond customs. It is crucial to verify any non-tariff regulatory requirements with the importing country's relevant agencies.