HS 284390 Other compounds; amalgams
Quick Answer: HS code 284390 covers "Other compounds; amalgams," encompassing a diverse range of precious metal compounds not elsewhere specified in Chapter 28, along with amalgams of precious metals. This includes various salts, oxides, and other chemical derivatives of precious metals like silver, gold, and platinum, as well as their alloys with mercury. Importers and customs brokers should note the varying duty rates: the UK Trade Tariff shows rates such as 0.00% and 4.00% ad valorem, while the EU TARIC generally applies a 5.30% ad valorem duty. For the US, the general duty rate is 3.7% ad valorem, with many preferential programs offering duty-free treatment (e.g., under A, AU, CL, KR, SG). A 25% duty may apply under specific trade measures. Due to the broad scope, precise classification within this subheading requires careful review of the specific chemical composition and form of the product against national tariff schedules.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2843900000 | — | — | — |
| 2843901010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2843909000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2843901000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2843901090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2843900000 | — | — | — |
| 2843901000 | 5.30 % | — | — |
| 2843901010 | 5.30 % | — | — |
| 2843901090 | 5.30 % | — | — |
| 2843909000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2843900000 | 3.7% | 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 2843.90?
Imports of Other compounds; amalgams 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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 284390 cover?
This subheading covers "Other compounds; amalgams" of precious metals, specifically those not falling under subheadings 2843.10 (colloidal precious metals) or 2843.20 (silver compounds). According to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSENs) for Heading 2843, this includes a broad range of chemical compounds of gold, silver, and platinum group metals, provided they are not otherwise specified elsewhere in the Nomenclature. Examples include gold chlorides, silver nitrates, and various platinum salts, as well as amalgams of precious metals with mercury, such as silver amalgam used in dentistry, when presented in bulk form. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and EU TARIC further define this scope, ensuring consistency with the WCO's interpretation for these specialized chemical products.
What falls outside HS 284390?
The following products are excluded from HS 284390: colloidal precious metals (classified under 2843.10), silver compounds (classified under 2843.20), and precious metal alloys that are not amalgams (typically found in Chapter 71). For instance, gold alloys used in jewelry or dentistry, which are mixtures of metals rather than chemical compounds or amalgams, are classified under Chapter 71, such as 7106, 7108, or 7110, depending on the specific precious metal. Furthermore, radioactive isotopes of precious metals, even if in compound form, are generally classified under Heading 2844. Diagnostic reagents containing precious metal compounds, if prepared for specific medical uses, might fall under Chapter 30 or 38, depending on their formulation and intended use, rather than as bulk chemical compounds.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 284390?
A common error is misclassifying precious metal alloys as compounds or amalgams, or vice versa, leading to incorrect duty rates and regulatory compliance issues. Importers sometimes confuse a simple mixture of metals (an alloy) with a chemical compound or an amalgam, which involves a specific chemical bond or solution with mercury. Another frequent mistake is failing to distinguish between bulk chemical compounds and prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents containing these compounds, which often fall under different chapters based on their functional use, as per General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(a) or 3(b). Overlooking the specific provisions for colloidal precious metals (2843.10) and silver compounds (2843.20) also leads to incorrect application of the residual subheading 2843.90.
How should importers classify products under HS 284390?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 284390 requires a thorough understanding of the product's chemical composition and form. Importers and customs brokers should first determine if the product is a precious metal compound or an amalgam, rather than a simple alloy. Next, verify that it is not a colloidal precious metal (2843.10) or a silver compound (2843.20) by consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules like the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC. Obtain a detailed chemical analysis or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to confirm the exact chemical nature. If the product is a prepared diagnostic reagent or a specific article containing the compound, consider classification under Chapters 30, 38, or 71, applying GRIs 1 and 6, and potentially GRI 3(b) if it's a mixture or composite good, to ensure accurate and compliant customs declarations.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 2843.90 ('Other compounds; amalgams') in major markets, and how do preferential trade agreements affect these rates?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2843.90 can vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies an MFN duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.30% ad valorem for many products under this subheading. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.30% ad valorem MFN rate. However, preferential trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For example, imports into the US 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 'Free' duty under respective Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) if all rules of origin requirements are met. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement and their national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most accurate and up-to-date rates applicable to their specific origin and destination.
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2843.90, especially distinguishing it from other subheadings within Chapter 28?
HS 2843.90 covers 'Other compounds; amalgams' that are not specifically provided for in subheadings 2843.10 (Colloidal precious metals) or 2843.20 (Silver compounds). Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System (HS) covers 'Inorganic chemicals; organic or inorganic compounds of precious metals, of rare-earth metals, of radioactive elements or of isotopes.' Classification under 2843.90 requires the product to be an inorganic or organic compound of precious metals (e.g., gold, silver, platinum, palladium, rhodium, iridium, osmium, ruthenium) or an amalgam, but not one specifically identified as colloidal precious metals or silver compounds. Importers must carefully review the chemical composition and form of their product against the Explanatory Notes to Chapter 28 and heading 28.43, issued by the World Customs Organization (WCO), to ensure correct classification. Products that are merely mixtures or preparations, rather than distinct chemical compounds or amalgams, may fall into other headings or chapters.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 2843.90, particularly when claiming preferential duty rates?
Standard import documentation for HS 2843.90 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. For chemical products, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is often required by regulatory bodies for hazard communication and may be requested by customs. When claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), specific documentation proving the origin of the goods is mandatory. This typically involves a Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate, or a self-certification by the exporter) that attests the goods meet the rules of origin criteria of the respective agreement. Customs authorities will scrutinize these documents to ensure compliance. Failure to provide correct and complete documentation can result in the denial of preferential duty treatment, assessment of the MFN rate, delays, or penalties. Importers should work closely with their suppliers to ensure all necessary origin documentation is accurately prepared and available.
Are there any specific import restrictions or regulatory requirements for 'Other compounds; amalgams' under HS 2843.90, beyond standard customs procedures?
Given the broad nature of 'Other compounds; amalgams' under HS 2843.90, specific import restrictions or regulatory requirements can vary significantly based on the exact chemical nature of the compound or amalgam. Many compounds of precious metals, especially those used in industrial applications, may be subject to chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU, UK REACH in the UK). Importers should verify if their specific product is listed on any national chemical inventories or requires pre-market notification or registration. Additionally, if the compounds contain any hazardous substances, they will be subject to transport regulations (e.g., IATA for air, IMDG for sea) and domestic hazardous materials regulations. Products containing certain precious metals might also be subject to specific licensing or reporting requirements, especially if they are dual-use items or have potential applications in sensitive industries. It is crucial for importers to identify the specific chemical identity of their product and consult relevant national agencies (e.g., EPA, ECHA, HSE) to ensure full compliance with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations prior to import.