HS 284180 Tungstates (wolframates)
Quick Answer: HS code 284180 covers tungstates, also known as wolframates, which are chemical compounds containing tungsten and oxygen, typically in salt form. These are often used in industrial applications such as catalysts, pigments, and in the production of tungsten metal. For importers and exporters, understanding the varied duty rates is crucial. The UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU's Common Customs Tariff sets a 5.50% ad valorem rate. The US tariff schedule shows significant variation, with rates ranging from 5.5% to 49.5% ad valorem, alongside "Free" duty for products originating from numerous preferential trade partners under various trade agreements (e.g., A+, AU, BH, CL, CO, etc.). Importers should verify specific product classifications and origin to leverage potential duty reductions.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2841800000 | — | — | — |
| 2841800010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2841800090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2841800020 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2841800000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2841800010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2841800020 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2841800090 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28418000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 2841800010 | — | — | ["kg","W kg"] |
| 2841800050 | — | — | ["kg","W kg"] |
| 2841800020 | — | — | ["kg","W 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 2841.80?
Imports of Tungstates (wolframates) 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, 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 284180 cover?
This subheading covers tungstates, also known as wolframates, which are salts of tungstic acid. Specifically, it encompasses various chemical compounds where tungsten is present as the tungstate anion (WO₄²⁻). Examples include sodium tungstate (Na₂WO₄), calcium tungstate (CaWO₄), and ammonium paratungstate (APT), which are crucial intermediates in the production of tungsten metal and its alloys. The scope is defined by the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as interpreted by the World Customs Organization (WCO), and reflected in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system, ensuring consistent application for these inorganic chemical compounds.
What falls outside HS 284180?
The following products are excluded from HS 284180: tungstic acid itself (H₂WO₄), which is classified under HS 2825.90 as other inorganic acids and their salts. Tungsten oxides, such as tungsten trioxide (WO₃), are also excluded and fall under HS 2825.90. Furthermore, articles made from tungstates, such as phosphors or pigments, are generally classified according to their material composition and function in other chapters, rather than as bulk chemical tungstates. For instance, luminescent tungstates used in specific applications would be classified under Chapter 32 or Chapter 38, depending on their form and use, rather than as raw chemical salts.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 284180?
A common error is misclassifying tungstic acid or tungsten oxides as tungstates, or vice versa. Importers sometimes confuse the acid or oxide forms with the salt forms, leading to incorrect tariff assignments. Another frequent mistake involves classifying mixtures containing tungstates under this subheading when the tungstate is not the predominant or essential character-imparting component, violating General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b). For example, a prepared catalyst containing tungstates might be more appropriately classified under HS 3815 as a catalyst, rather than as a simple tungstate salt, if the catalytic function is paramount.
How should importers classify products under HS 284180?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 284180 involves first verifying that the product is indeed a tungstate (wolframate) salt, not tungstic acid or a tungsten oxide. Importers and customs brokers should consult the chemical name and CAS number, if available, against the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2841 and national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. If the product is a mixture, apply General Interpretative Rule 3 to determine the essential character. Always ensure that the product's chemical identity precisely matches the description of "Tungstates (wolframates)" to avoid misclassification and potential penalties, maintaining accurate documentation for customs verification.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard import duty rates for Tungstates (HS 284180) in key markets, and how can I determine the applicable rate for my specific shipment?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for Tungstates (HS 284180) generally range from 4.0% to 5.5% ad valorem in many developed economies. For instance, the United States typically applies a 4.0% ad valorem duty rate under HTSUS 2841.80.00. The European Union's TARIC database shows a common MFN rate of 5.5% ad valorem for CN code 2841 80 00. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem MFN rate for commodity code 2841 80 00 00. However, specific rates can vary by country and may be subject to trade policy changes. To determine the precise duty rate for your shipment, you must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff). Customs brokers can also provide definitive guidance based on the destination country and origin.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Tungstates (HS 284180) under free trade agreements or special programs, and how do I claim them?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for Tungstates (HS 284180) under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and special trade programs. For example, imports into the U.S. from countries like 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 qualify for duty-free treatment under their respective FTAs. Similarly, the EU and UK have preferential agreements (e.g., GSP, specific FTAs) that could reduce or eliminate duties for eligible originating goods. To claim preferential duty rates, importers must typically provide a valid Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration from the exporter, confirming that the goods meet the rules of origin requirements of the specific trade agreement. It is crucial to verify the specific origin criteria for HS 284180 under the relevant agreement.
What are the key classification criteria for ensuring my product is correctly classified under HS 284180 as 'Tungstates (wolframates)'?
HS 284180 specifically covers 'Tungstates (wolframates)'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical composition of the substance. For a product to be classified under this subheading, it must be a salt of tungstic acid (H2WO4), meaning it contains the tungstate anion (WO4^2-). This includes various forms such as sodium tungstate, calcium tungstate, ammonium paratungstate (APT), and other metallic tungstates. Importers should ensure that chemical analysis reports or product specifications clearly identify the substance as a tungstate. Misclassification often occurs if the product is a tungsten compound but not specifically a tungstate, or if it's an ore concentrate rather than a refined chemical. Reference to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28, particularly heading 28.41, can provide further clarity on the scope of this classification.
Are there any specific documentation requirements, beyond standard customs entry documents, for importing Tungstates (HS 284180)?
Beyond standard import documentation such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, specific additional documentation for Tungstates (HS 284180) may be required depending on the country of import and the specific nature of the tungstate. For claiming preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, or other FTA-specific certificates) is essential. For certain applications or if the tungstate is considered a dual-use good or a precursor, additional permits or licenses from regulatory bodies might be necessary, though this is less common for general tungstates. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are always recommended for chemical products to ensure compliance with occupational safety and environmental regulations in the importing country. Importers should consult their customs broker and the relevant government agencies (e.g., EPA in the US, ECHA in the EU) for any specific chemical import regulations.
What common trade agreements significantly impact the import duties for HS 284180, and how can importers leverage them?
Several major trade agreements significantly impact the import duties for HS 284180, primarily by offering duty-free or reduced duty rates. Key agreements include: the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaced NAFTA; various bilateral FTAs of the U.S. (e.g., with Korea, Australia, Chile, Peru); the European Union's network of FTAs (e.g., with Japan, Canada, South Korea, UK TCA); and the UK's independent FTAs. Importers can leverage these agreements by ensuring their tungstate products meet the specific 'rules of origin' outlined in the respective agreement. This typically involves demonstrating that the product was wholly obtained or underwent sufficient processing within the territory of a party to the agreement. By obtaining and presenting the correct Certificate of Origin or origin declaration, importers can significantly reduce or eliminate customs duties, enhancing cost competitiveness. It is crucial to stay updated on the specific origin requirements for HS 284180 under each applicable agreement, as these can vary.