HS 283660 Barium carbonate

What products does HS 283660 cover?

This subheading covers barium carbonate, a chemical compound with the formula BaCO₃. As defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature and further elaborated in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this specific code encompasses barium carbonate in its various forms, including powders, granules, and lumps, provided it meets the chemical purity standards generally accepted for this inorganic compound. It is a white, crystalline solid that is practically insoluble in water, primarily used in the ceramics industry, for manufacturing other barium compounds, and as a rat poison.

What falls outside HS 283660?

The following products are excluded from HS 283660: barium peroxide (BaO₂), which is classified under HS 2816.40, and other barium compounds that are not carbonates, such as barium sulfate (BaSO₄), which falls under HS 2833.27. Additionally, mixtures containing barium carbonate where the barium carbonate is not the predominant component by weight or where the product has been prepared for specific uses not typical of bulk barium carbonate, such as prepared pigments or medicaments, would be classified elsewhere according to their composition and intended use, often under Chapter 32 or Chapter 30 respectively. Products that are merely physically mixed with other substances but retain the essential character of barium carbonate would generally remain in 283660, but chemical derivatives are explicitly excluded.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 283660?

A common error is misclassifying barium carbonate when it is part of a mixture or compound preparation. Importers sometimes incorrectly classify a product under 283660 even when barium carbonate is not the sole or principal constituent, overlooking the General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) which dictates classification by essential character for mixtures. Another frequent mistake involves confusing barium carbonate with other barium salts, especially barium sulfate, due to similar appearances or industrial applications. Furthermore, failing to consider the purity level or the specific chemical form can lead to errors, particularly if the product is a derivative or a complex compound rather than simple barium carbonate, necessitating a deeper analysis of its chemical structure and composition.

How should importers classify products under HS 283660?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 283660 involves several critical steps for importers and customs brokers. Firstly, verify the exact chemical name and formula of the product to confirm it is indeed barium carbonate (BaCO₃). Obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer to confirm the chemical composition, purity, and any other constituents. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2836 and Subheading 283660 for specific guidance on scope and exclusions. If the product is a mixture, apply GRI 3(b) to determine if barium carbonate imparts the essential character. Finally, cross-reference with national tariff schedules like the HTSUS or EU TARIC to ensure consistency and check for any specific national rulings or interpretations that might apply to barium carbonate.