HS 284330 Gold compounds

Quick Answer: HS 284330 covers gold compounds, which are chemical compounds containing gold. This heading specifically excludes colloidal gold (classified under 284310) and gold alloys. These compounds find applications in various industries, including electronics, dentistry, and as catalysts. For importers, duty rates vary significantly by destination. The United Kingdom and the European Union generally apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate to products classified under this heading. In contrast, the United States applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 25% ad valorem. However, many countries benefit from preferential duty rates, often "Free," under various trade agreements and preference programs (e.g., A*, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, K, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). Importers should verify their specific country of origin eligibility for these preferential rates to optimize landed costs. Accurate classification is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2843300000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2843300000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2843300000 5% Free (18 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 2843.30?

Imports of Gold compounds 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 16 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 284330 cover?

This subheading covers gold compounds, which are chemical compounds containing gold as an integral part of their molecular structure. Specifically, it encompasses inorganic and organic compounds of gold, provided they are not radioactive isotopes (which fall under Heading 2844) or precious metal alloys (Heading 7106 or 7108). Examples include gold chlorides (e.g., gold(III) chloride, AuCl3), gold cyanides (e.g., potassium dicyanoaurate(I), K[Au(CN)2]), and various gold salts used in pharmaceuticals, electroplating, and photography. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2843 further clarify that this heading covers colloidal precious metals and compounds of precious metals, whether or not chemically defined, aligning with definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system.

What falls outside HS 284330?

The following products are excluded from HS 284330: colloidal gold, which is classified under HS 284310 as "Colloidal precious metals." Additionally, gold amalgams, which are alloys of gold with mercury, are classified under HS 284390 as "Other compounds; amalgams of precious metals." Radioactive isotopes of gold, such as gold-198 used in medical treatments, are specifically excluded and fall under Heading 2844. Furthermore, articles of jewelry or goldsmiths' wares containing gold compounds are classified in Chapter 71, not Chapter 28, as they are finished articles rather than raw chemical compounds. Gold alloys, even if containing other elements, are generally classified in Chapter 71 unless they are specifically defined as chemical compounds.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 284330?

A common error is misclassifying colloidal gold under HS 284330 instead of the more specific HS 284310. Importers sometimes confuse a colloidal dispersion of gold particles with a true chemical compound of gold, leading to incorrect classification. Another frequent mistake involves gold amalgams, which are often mistakenly grouped with gold compounds rather than their correct subheading, HS 284390. This highlights the importance of distinguishing between chemical compounds, colloidal suspensions, and alloys. Misinterpreting the scope of "compounds" versus "colloidal" or "amalgams" can lead to non-compliance, emphasizing the need to apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes.

How should importers classify products under HS 284330?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 284330 involves a thorough review of the product's chemical composition and form. Importers and customs brokers should first verify that the product is indeed a chemical compound of gold, meaning gold is chemically bonded within its molecular structure, rather than a colloidal suspension or an alloy. Consult the product's Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for precise chemical identification. Next, confirm that the product is not radioactive (excluding Heading 2844) and is not an amalgam (excluding HS 284390). Finally, cross-reference the chemical name and CAS number with official tariff schedules like the USITC HTS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff to ensure alignment with the specific definitions and Explanatory Notes for Heading 2843 and its subheadings, ensuring accurate duty and regulatory compliance.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 284310 HS 284390 HS 284321 HS 284530 HS 284610 HS 284130

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS 2843.30 (Gold compounds) in the United States?

For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2843.30.00.00, covering 'Gold compounds,' is 3.5% ad valorem. This rate applies to goods from countries without specific preferential trade agreements with the U.S. or those not subject to special trade programs. This information is based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), Chapter 28, as published by the United States International Trade Commission (USITC).

Are there any preferential duty rates available for gold compounds under HS 2843.30, and which trade agreements apply?

Yes, significant preferential duty treatment is available for gold compounds (HS 2843.30) under various U.S. free trade agreements and preference programs. For eligible goods originating from partner countries, the duty rate can be 0.00% (Free). Key agreements and programs offering this preferential rate include, but are not limited to, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries (indicated by 'A*' or 'A+'), and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries such as Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (K, KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and others. Importers must ensure compliance with the specific Rules of Origin for each agreement to claim preferential duty rates. Consult the HTSUS General Notes for detailed country eligibility and specific program requirements.

What are the key classification criteria for a product to be classified under HS 2843.30 as 'Gold compounds'?

Classification under HS 2843.30 specifically covers 'Gold compounds.' The primary criterion is that the substance must be a chemical compound where gold is an integral part of its molecular structure, not merely a mixture or an alloy. This subheading falls under Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Inorganic chemicals; organic or inorganic compounds of precious metals, of rare-earth metals, of radio-active elements or of isotopes.' The classification hinges on the chemical identity and composition of the product. For example, gold chloride (AuCl3) or potassium dicyanoaurate(I) (K[Au(CN)2]) would typically be classified here, whereas elemental gold or gold alloys would be classified elsewhere (e.g., Chapter 71). Importers should provide a detailed chemical description, including the chemical formula and purity, to ensure accurate classification, referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for Chapter 28.

What documentation is typically required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for importing gold compounds under HS 2843.30?

For importing gold compounds under HS 2843.30 into the U.S., standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. To substantiate the classification and any preferential duty claims, additional specific documentation is crucial:

  1. Chemical Analysis/Certificate of Analysis (CoA): To confirm the chemical identity, composition, and purity of the gold compound.
  2. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS): For hazardous materials, providing essential safety and handling information.
  3. Certificate of Origin: If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or special program, a valid Certificate of Origin (or equivalent declaration) is mandatory to prove the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin of that agreement.
  4. Importer Security Filing (ISF): Required for ocean cargo.
  5. Entry Summary (CBP Form 7501): Filed by the importer or their customs broker. Importers should consult with a licensed customs broker to ensure all specific CBP requirements are met, as additional documentation may be requested depending on the specific compound and its end-use.