HS 284410 Natural uranium and its compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing natural uranium or natural uranium compounds
Quick Answer: HS code 284410 encompasses natural uranium in various forms, including its chemical compounds, alloys, dispersions (like cermets), ceramic products, and other mixtures containing natural uranium or its compounds. This classification primarily covers unprocessed or minimally processed natural uranium, distinct from enriched uranium or radioactive isotopes. For importers and exporters, duty rates vary significantly. The UK and EU generally apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty across most subheadings, reflecting the strategic nature of these materials. In contrast, the US tariff schedule shows a broader range, from "Free" for eligible preferential trade agreements (e.g., A+, AU, CL) to specific rates like 5% or even 45% ad valorem for certain subheadings, depending on the product form and origin. Due to the dual-use nature and strategic importance of these materials, trade is subject to stringent licensing, non-proliferation controls, and regulatory oversight beyond standard customs procedures. Importers and brokers must verify all applicable import/export licenses and end-use certifications.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2844101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844105000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844100000 | — | — | — |
| 2844103000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844109000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2844101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844105000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844103000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844109000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 284410 | — | — | — |
| 2844102055 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 2844105000 | 5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2844101000 | 5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 28441020 | Free | — | — |
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 2844.10?
Imports of Natural uranium and its compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing natural uranium or natural uranium 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, 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 284410 cover?
This subheading covers natural uranium and its compounds, as well as alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products, and mixtures containing natural uranium or natural uranium compounds. Natural uranium refers to uranium as found in nature, containing approximately 0.7% of the fissile isotope uranium-235. This classification is consistent with the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 28.44, which specifies the inclusion of these forms of natural uranium. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system both align with this definition, ensuring uniform application for trade compliance across major jurisdictions.
What falls outside HS 284410?
The following products are excluded from HS 284410: enriched uranium, depleted uranium, and their compounds, which are classified under HS 284420 and 284430 respectively. Furthermore, radioactive elements and isotopes other than uranium, thorium, or plutonium, and their compounds, fall under HS 284440. For instance, radioactive cobalt-60 or iodine-131 would be classified under 284440, not 284410. Articles incorporating radioactive elements, such as smoke detectors containing americium-241, are generally classified according to their function and material composition under other chapters, rather than under Heading 2844, unless they are specifically designed as radioactive sources.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 284410?
A common error is misclassifying enriched or depleted uranium as natural uranium, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential regulatory non-compliance. Importers sometimes fail to distinguish between the isotopic compositions, which is a critical factor for classification within Heading 2844. Another mistake involves classifying articles containing natural uranium, but where the uranium is not the primary characteristic or function, under 284410 instead of their appropriate functional heading. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid such errors, especially when considering composite goods.
How should importers classify products under HS 284410?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 284410 involves first verifying that the uranium is indeed "natural," meaning its isotopic composition has not been altered to increase or decrease the percentage of uranium-235. Importers and customs brokers should obtain detailed technical specifications, including isotopic analysis reports, from the manufacturer or supplier. If the product is an alloy, dispersion, ceramic product, or mixture, confirm that natural uranium or its compounds are present and are the defining characteristic. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 28.44, along with the specific national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff), to ensure alignment with legal notes and rulings. When in doubt, seek a binding tariff information (BTI) ruling from the relevant customs authority.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS 2844.10 in the United States?
For the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS 2844.10, covering 'Natural uranium and its compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing natural uranium or natural uranium compounds,' is 0.00% ad valorem. This rate is consistent across various trade tariffs, including the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), as published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC).
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2844.10 under U.S. Free Trade Agreements or special programs?
Yes, HS 2844.10 is eligible for preferential duty treatment under numerous U.S. Free Trade Agreements and special programs, typically resulting in a 'Free' (0.00%) duty rate. Examples of countries and trade agreements that grant duty-free access include 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). Importers should consult the latest HTSUS General Notes and specific trade agreement rules of origin to ensure eligibility and proper claim of preference.
What specific criteria determine the classification of products under HS 2844.10?
HS 2844.10 specifically covers 'Natural uranium and its compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing natural uranium or natural uranium compounds.' The key classification criteria revolve around the presence and form of natural uranium. 'Natural uranium' refers to uranium containing the mixture of isotopes as found in nature (approximately 0.7% uranium-235). Classification under this subheading requires the product to be either natural uranium itself, a chemical compound of natural uranium, or a product (like an alloy, dispersion, cermet, or ceramic product) where natural uranium or its compounds are a constituent component. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 provide further guidance on the scope of radioactive elements and their compounds.
What documentation and regulatory requirements are typically involved when importing goods classified under HS 2844.10?
Importing goods under HS 2844.10, which includes natural uranium and its compounds, involves stringent regulatory oversight due to their radioactive nature. In the United States, importers must comply with requirements from multiple agencies, including the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for licensing and permits, and potentially the Department of Energy (DOE) for certain materials. Key documentation typically includes: NRC import licenses, Shipper's Export Declaration (SED) or Electronic Export Information (EEI) for re-exports, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), certificates of origin for preferential duty claims, and detailed descriptions of the material's composition and intended use. Importers should engage with a customs broker experienced in radioactive materials and consult the relevant government agencies well in advance of importation.