HS 283990 Other
Quick Answer: HS code 283990, "Other," covers a diverse range of inorganic salts of metallic acids or peroxometallic acids not elsewhere specified in Heading 2839. This includes various chromates, manganites, and other complex inorganic compounds. Importers and exporters should note the significant duty rate variations globally. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff generally applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty. In contrast, the EU TARIC system typically levies a 5.00% ad valorem duty. The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) shows a broader range, from 3.1% to 25% ad valorem, with potential for duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR). Due to the "Other" designation, precise product identification and chemical composition are crucial for accurate classification and duty assessment, necessitating careful review of specific subheadings and applicable trade agreements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2839900020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2839900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2839900090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2839900000 | 5.00 % | — | — |
| 2839900020 | 5.00 % | — | — |
| 2839900090 | 5.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2839901000 | 3.1% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 283990 | — | — | — |
| 2839905000 | 3.1% | 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 2839.90?
Imports of Other 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 283990 cover?
This subheading covers "Other" salts of peroxometallic acids, silicates, and borates, specifically those not enumerated in subheadings 283911, 283919, or 283920. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as interpreted by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and EU TARIC, this residual subheading captures a diverse range of inorganic chemical compounds. Examples include various silicates of metals other than sodium or potassium, such as magnesium silicate (talc, when not in bulk form for specific uses), calcium silicate, and certain complex borates not specifically provided for elsewhere in Chapter 28, ensuring all such inorganic salts find their correct classification.
What falls outside HS 283990?
The following products are excluded from HS 283990: sodium silicates (classified under 283911), other silicates of alkali metals (classified under 283919), and peroxoborates (perborates) (classified under 283920). Furthermore, naturally occurring minerals, even if chemically identical to synthetic silicates or borates, are generally classified in Chapter 25 or 26, depending on their form and processing. For instance, natural borates like borax (sodium tetraborate decahydrate) are typically found in Chapter 25, specifically under 2528. Similarly, prepared silicates used as pigments or fillers, such as certain forms of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, are classified in Chapter 32 or 28 respectively, based on their chemical identity and primary function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 283990?
A common error is misclassifying specific silicates or borates that have their own dedicated subheadings within 2839, or even elsewhere in Chapter 28 or 25. Importers often overlook the specific provisions for sodium silicates (283911) or peroxoborates (283920), defaulting to "Other" prematurely. Another frequent mistake involves classifying naturally occurring minerals, such as crude borates or certain forms of talc, under 283990, when their natural state and minimal processing dictate classification in Chapter 25. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which prioritizes the terms of the headings and section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid these errors, ensuring the most specific heading is always applied first.
How should importers classify products under HS 283990?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 283990 involves a systematic review of the product's chemical composition and form, starting with the most specific provisions. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is indeed a salt of a peroxometallic acid, a silicate, or a borate. Subsequently, they must meticulously check if the product is specifically named or described in subheadings 283911 (sodium silicates), 283919 (other silicates of alkali metals), or 283920 (peroxoborates). Only if the product does not fit into any of these more specific subheadings should 283990 be considered. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2839 and relevant national tariff interpretations (e.g., USITC HTSUS General Notes, EU TARIC guidance) is essential to ensure accurate and compliant classification.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the import duty rate for goods classified under HS 2839.90 in the United States?
For goods classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2839.90, 'Other,' in the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is generally 3.1% ad valorem. However, many preferential trade agreements offer duty-free treatment. For example, goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has Free Trade Agreements (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) may be eligible for a 'Free' (0.00%) duty rate, provided all rules of origin and documentation requirements are met. Importers should consult the latest U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) via the USITC website for the most current and specific rates applicable to their country of origin.
What types of products are typically classified under HS 2839.90 'Other'?
HS subheading 2839.90 is a residual 'Other' category within Heading 28.39, which covers 'Silicates; commercial alkali metal silicates.' Therefore, 2839.90 specifically includes silicates and commercial alkali metal silicates that are not elsewhere specified in subheadings 2839.11, 2839.19, or 2839.20. This typically encompasses various forms of sodium silicates (e.g., water glass) and potassium silicates, provided they are not specifically described in the more granular subheadings. Accurate classification requires a detailed analysis of the chemical composition and form of the specific product in question, adhering to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs) of the Harmonized System.
What documentation is required to claim preferential duty rates for HS 2839.90 under a Free Trade Agreement?
To claim preferential duty rates for goods under HS 2839.90, such as the 'Free' rate available through various U.S. FTAs (e.g., USMCA, KORUS, CAFTA-DR), importers must ensure they possess the necessary documentation to substantiate the product's origin. This typically involves a Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration, as specified by the particular trade agreement. This document certifies that the goods meet the specific rules of origin criteria outlined in the agreement. Importers or their customs brokers must present this documentation to customs authorities upon request and retain it for the period mandated by law (e.g., five years from the date of entry for U.S. imports). Failure to provide valid origin documentation will result in the application of the higher MFN duty rate.
Are there any specific import restrictions or non-tariff barriers for products under HS 2839.90?
While HS 2839.90 primarily covers chemical products, specific import restrictions or non-tariff barriers are generally not common for basic silicates themselves, beyond standard chemical regulations. However, importers should always verify compliance with national chemical control laws (e.g., TSCA in the U.S., REACH in the EU, K-REACH in Korea) which may require pre-market notification, registration, or specific labeling for certain chemical substances. Additionally, depending on the end-use or specific formulation, other agency requirements (e.g., FDA for food-contact materials, EPA for environmental impact) could apply. It is crucial for importers to consult the relevant national regulatory bodies in the importing country to ensure full compliance.