HS 283699 Other

What products does HS 283699 cover?

This subheading covers "Other" carbonates and peroxocarbonates (percarbonates) that are not specifically provided for in the preceding subheadings of Heading 2836. This includes a diverse range of inorganic chemical compounds, such as various alkali metal carbonates, alkaline-earth metal carbonates, and other metallic carbonates, provided they are not sodium carbonate (soda ash), disodium carbonate, sodium hydrogencarbonate (sodium bicarbonate), or potassium carbonates. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2836 confirm that this residual subheading captures all other carbonates and peroxocarbonates not elsewhere specified within the heading, encompassing compounds like magnesium carbonate, calcium carbonate (precipitated), barium carbonate, and strontium carbonate, among others, when presented in their pure chemical forms.

What falls outside HS 283699?

The following products are excluded from HS 283699: sodium carbonate (soda ash), which is classified under 283620; disodium carbonate, also under 283620; sodium hydrogencarbonate (sodium bicarbonate), classified under 283630; and potassium carbonates, classified under 283640. Furthermore, natural calcium carbonate, such as chalk, limestone, or marble, even if crushed or powdered, is generally classified in Chapter 25 (e.g., 2508, 2517, 2521, 2522) rather than as a chemical compound in Chapter 28. Similarly, prepared chalks for writing or drawing fall under Chapter 96, and certain mineral substances containing carbonates, if not chemically pure, would be classified elsewhere based on their composition and use, often in Chapters 25 or 26.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 283699?

A common error is misclassifying specific carbonates that have their own dedicated subheadings within 2836 into the "Other" category of 283699. For instance, classifying sodium bicarbonate under 283699 instead of its correct subheading 283630 is a frequent mistake. Another pitfall involves classifying natural mineral forms of carbonates, such as ground limestone or chalk, as chemical compounds under 283699, when they should be classified in Chapter 25. This often occurs due to a failure 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, and GRI 6, which extends this principle to subheadings, ensuring that goods are classified at the most specific level possible.

How should importers classify products under HS 283699?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 283699 involves a systematic review of the product's chemical identity and purity. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is indeed a carbonate or peroxocarbonate. Next, they must meticulously check if the specific compound is explicitly named in any other subheading within Heading 2836 (e.g., sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonates). If the product is not specifically enumerated elsewhere within 2836, and it meets the criteria for an inorganic chemical compound, then 283699 is the appropriate residual classification. Always consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2836 and relevant national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) to ensure accurate and compliant classification, paying close attention to purity levels and the distinction between chemical compounds and natural mineral substances.