HS 284430 Uranium depleted in U 235 and its compounds; thorium and its compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing uranium depleted in U 235, thorium or compounds of these products
Quick Answer: HS code 284430 encompasses a range of nuclear materials, specifically uranium depleted in U-235 and its chemical compounds, as well as thorium and its compounds. It also includes alloys, dispersions (like cermets), ceramic products, and mixtures containing these depleted uranium or thorium materials. This classification is crucial for items used in nuclear energy, radiation shielding, and specialized industrial applications. Importers and exporters should note varying duty rates. In the UK, rates can be 2.00% to 4.00% ad valorem. The EU TARIC system shows rates from 0.00% to 5.50% ad valorem. The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule often lists "Free" duty for many subheadings, though some can be 5% ad valorem. Due to the sensitive nature of these goods, trade is subject to stringent licensing, non-proliferation controls, and regulatory oversight beyond standard customs procedures.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2844300000 | — | — | — |
| 2844301110 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2844301900 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 2844305110 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2844305500 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2844301100 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2844300000 | — | — | — |
| 2844309900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844301110 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2844301190 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 284430 | — | — | — |
| 28443020 | Free | — | — |
| 2844302020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 28443050 | 5% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 2844305010 | — | — | ["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 2844.30?
Imports of Uranium depleted in U 235 and its compounds; thorium and its compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing uranium depleted in U 235, thorium or compounds of these products 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 14 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 284430 cover?
This subheading covers uranium depleted in U 235 and its compounds, as well as thorium and its compounds. It also encompasses alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products, and mixtures containing uranium depleted in U 235, thorium, or compounds of these products. As defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 28.44, "depleted uranium" refers to uranium in which the content of the isotope U 235 is less than the natural content (approximately 0.711% by weight). This scope is consistently reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system, ensuring uniform application for customs purposes across major trading blocs.
What falls outside HS 284430?
The following products are excluded from HS 284430: natural uranium and its compounds, which are classified under HS 2844.10. Similarly, uranium enriched in U 235 and its compounds, along with plutonium and its compounds, are classified under HS 2844.20. Radioactive elements and isotopes (including fissile or fertile chemical elements and isotopes) that are not specifically mentioned in subheadings 2844.10, 2844.20, or 2844.30, such as radium, polonium, or technetium, fall under HS 2844.40. Furthermore, articles of these materials, such as spent fuel elements (cartridges) of nuclear reactors, are classified under HS 2844.50, as they are considered finished articles rather than raw materials or simple compounds.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 284430?
A common error is misclassifying natural uranium or enriched uranium under HS 284430, failing to distinguish between the specific isotopic compositions. Importers sometimes overlook the critical "depleted in U 235" criterion, leading to incorrect declarations. Another frequent mistake involves classifying articles made from these materials, such as specific components for nuclear reactors, within this subheading, when they should properly fall under HS 2844.50 as "spent (irradiated) fuel elements (cartridges) of nuclear reactors; and other elements, cartridges, parts and accessories for nuclear reactors." This often violates General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 2(b) or 3(a), which prioritize classification based on the essential character or the most specific description, respectively, for composite goods or mixtures.
How should importers classify products under HS 284430?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 284430 involves a meticulous review of the product's chemical composition and isotopic content. Importers and customs brokers must first verify that the uranium is indeed "depleted in U 235" (i.e., less than 0.711% by weight of U 235) or that the product is thorium or one of its specified compounds, alloys, dispersions, ceramic products, or mixtures. Official certificates of analysis or material safety data sheets (MSDS) detailing the isotopic composition are essential supporting documents. If the product is an article or a component for a nuclear reactor, further consideration under HS 2844.50 is necessary. Always consult the latest WCO Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTSUS, or the EU TARIC for definitive guidance and to ensure compliance with national customs regulations, applying GRI 1 for primary classification.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for products classified under HS 2844.30 in key markets?
The MFN import duty rates for HS 2844.30 (Uranium depleted in U-235 and its compounds; thorium and its compounds; alloys, dispersions, ceramic products and mixtures containing these products) vary by importing country. For example, as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general MFN duty rate for imports into the United States is Free. In contrast, the EU TARIC database indicates a Common Customs Tariff (CCT) duty rate of 0.00% ad valorem for imports into the European Union. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as rates can be subject to change.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2844.30 under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates may apply to products classified under HS 2844.30, depending on the country of origin and the trade agreements in force with the importing country. For instance, goods originating from countries with which the United States has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) (e.g., USMCA, CAFTA-DR, KORUS) or special preference programs (e.g., GSP) may be eligible for duty-free treatment. Similarly, the EU applies preferential rates under various agreements (e.g., with the UK, Japan, Canada). Importers must ensure they meet the Rules of Origin criteria stipulated by the respective trade agreement and provide valid proof of origin (e.g., a certificate of origin) to claim preferential tariffs. Failure to meet these requirements will result in the application of the MFN duty rate.
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2844.30, especially distinguishing it from other radioactive elements?
The primary classification criterion for HS 2844.30 is the specific composition and nature of the radioactive material. This heading specifically covers 'Uranium depleted in U-235 and its compounds; thorium and its compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing uranium depleted in U-235, thorium or compounds of these products.' The key is the 'depleted' status of uranium (meaning the concentration of the U-235 isotope is less than that found in natural uranium) and the inclusion of thorium. This distinguishes it from natural uranium (typically 2844.20) or enriched uranium (also 2844.20). Importers must have precise analytical data or material safety data sheets (MSDS) detailing the isotopic composition of uranium, or the presence and form of thorium, to ensure correct classification. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 provide further guidance on the scope of these headings.
What specific documentation and regulatory requirements are typically needed for importing HS 2844.30 products?
Importing products under HS 2844.30 involves stringent documentation and regulatory compliance due to their radioactive nature. Beyond standard customs documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), importers will typically require: 1. Licenses/Permits: Issued by national nuclear regulatory authorities (e.g., Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in the US, Euratom in the EU) for import, handling, and use. 2. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS): Detailing the composition, hazards, and safe handling procedures. 3. Certificates of Origin: To claim preferential duty rates. 4. Radiation Certificates: Confirming activity levels and safe transport. 5. Compliance with Transport Regulations: Adherence to IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material, often implemented via national regulations (e.g., DOT in the US, ADR/RID in Europe). Importers should engage with customs brokers experienced in hazardous and radioactive materials and consult the relevant national regulatory bodies well in advance of shipment.