HS 284321 Silver compounds

For HS code 2843.21, covering 'Silver compounds,' the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the United States, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), is 3.7% ad valorem. However, numerous preferential trade agreements offer significantly lower or duty-free rates. For example, imports from countries designated as A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, and SG are eligible for duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or special programs. Importers should verify the specific country of origin and applicable trade agreement to claim these preferential rates, which typically requires a valid Certificate of Origin or similar documentation.

HS code 2843.21 specifically covers 'Silver compounds.' The primary classification criterion is that the silver must be chemically bonded within a compound, not merely a physical mixture or an article made of silver. This distinguishes it from unwrought silver (e.g., HS 7106.10) or articles of silver (e.g., HS 7114). 'Compounds' implies a substance formed from two or more elements chemically united in fixed proportions. Examples include silver nitrate (AgNO3), silver chloride (AgCl), or silver oxide (Ag2O). The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 provide further guidance, emphasizing the chemical nature of the product over its physical form or end-use for classification within this heading.

When importing silver compounds under HS 2843.21, standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. To claim preferential duty rates, such as duty-free entry under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), specific documentation proving the product's origin is mandatory. This typically involves a Certificate of Origin (e.g., a USMCA Certificate of Origin for goods from Mexico or Canada, or a Free Trade Agreement Certificate of Origin for other FTA partners) completed by the exporter. Importers must ensure the certificate accurately reflects the rules of origin for the specific agreement to avoid duty assessments and potential penalties. Additionally, depending on the specific compound and its end-use, other agency requirements (e.g., EPA, FDA) might necessitate further permits or declarations.

Yes, both the EU TARIC and UK Trade Tariff reflect significant impacts from various trade agreements for HS 2843.21. For the EU, many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like South Korea, Japan, Canada (CETA), and various developing nations under the GSP scheme offer reduced or zero duty rates. For example, under the EU-South Korea FTA, silver compounds originating from South Korea would typically be duty-free. Similarly, for the UK, post-Brexit trade agreements, such as the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) or the UK-South Korea FTA, provide preferential duty rates, often duty-free, for qualifying goods. Importers into the EU or UK must consult the respective TARIC or Trade Tariff and ensure compliance with the rules of origin to benefit from these preferential arrangements.