HS 284442 Actinium-225, actinium-227, californium-253, curium-240, curium-241, curium-242, curium-243, curium-244, einsteinium-253, einsteinium-254, gadolinium-148, polonium-208, polonium-209, polonium-210, radium-223, uranium-230 or uranium-232, and their compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing these elements or compounds
Quick Answer: HS code 284442 covers specific radioactive isotopes and their compounds, including Actinium-225, Polonium-210, Radium-223, and certain isotopes of Curium and Uranium. This classification also extends to alloys, dispersions (like cermets), ceramic products, and mixtures containing these elements or their compounds. For importers and exporters, a key trade consideration is the consistent duty-free status across major jurisdictions. The UK Trade Tariff, EU TARIC, and US Harmonized Tariff Schedule all show a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for products classified under 284442. Despite the zero duty, these materials are subject to stringent international and national regulations concerning safety, security, and non-proliferation, requiring specific licenses and permits for movement. Customs brokers must ensure all regulatory compliance and documentation are meticulously handled.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2844420000 | — | — | — |
| 2844429000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844421000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2844421000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844429000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2844420000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2844420000 | Free | — | ["GBq"] |
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.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 284442 cover?
This subheading covers specific radioactive isotopes and their compounds, as well as alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products, and mixtures containing these elements or compounds. Specifically, it enumerates Actinium-225, Actinium-227, Californium-253, Curium-240, Curium-241, Curium-242, Curium-243, Curium-244, Einsteinium-253, Einsteinium-254, Gadolinium-148, Polonium-208, Polonium-209, Polonium-210, Radium-223, Uranium-230, and Uranium-232. This precise scope is defined by the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as interpreted by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and reflected in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system, ensuring consistent global application for these highly specialized radioactive materials.
What falls outside HS 284442?
The following products are excluded from HS 284442: other radioactive elements and isotopes not specifically enumerated, even if they are also radioactive. For instance, Americium-241, commonly used in smoke detectors, is classified under HS 2844.43. Similarly, enriched uranium (other than U-230 or U-232) or depleted uranium, and thorium, fall under different subheadings within Heading 2844, such as 2844.20 or 2844.30, respectively. Furthermore, radioactive elements in the form of spent (irradiated) fuel elements of nuclear reactors are specifically excluded from Heading 2844 entirely and are classified under HS 8401.30, representing a distinct category of nuclear waste.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 284442?
A common error is misclassifying other radioactive isotopes or elements under HS 284442 simply because they are radioactive, without verifying if they are explicitly listed in the subheading's text. Importers might incorrectly assume that any "rare" or "uncommon" radioactive material belongs here. This often violates 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. Another mistake involves overlooking the "compounds; alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures" clause, leading to the incorrect classification of a compound of Polonium-210, for example, under a general chemical heading rather than here.
How should importers classify products under HS 284442?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 284442 involves a meticulous review of the product's exact isotopic composition. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the radioactive element present is one of the specific isotopes enumerated in the subheading's text (e.g., Actinium-225, Polonium-210, Uranium-230). If the product is a compound, alloy, dispersion, ceramic product, or mixture, it must contain one of these specified elements or their compounds. Consultation of the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2844 is crucial for clarification, alongside cross-referencing with the USITC HTS or EU TARIC for any national specificities or binding rulings. Accurate chemical analysis reports and certificates of origin are essential supporting documentation to substantiate the 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 2844.42 in major economies?
For products classified under HS 2844.42, which includes specific radioisotopes like Actinium-225, Radium-223, and their compounds, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate is generally 'Free' or '0.00% ad valorem' in major trading blocs. For instance, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) lists a 'Free' rate for this subheading. Similarly, the EU TARIC and the UK Global Tariff also apply a '0.00%' duty rate. This reflects a common global approach to essential scientific and medical materials.
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2844.42, especially concerning mixtures or alloys?
The primary classification criterion for HS 2844.42 is the presence and identification of the specific radioisotopes listed, such as Actinium-225, Radium-223, Uranium-230, or their compounds. This subheading also explicitly covers 'alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing these elements or compounds.' Therefore, even if the radioisotope is a minor component within a larger product, if it is one of the specified isotopes, the product will likely classify here. Importers must provide detailed compositional analysis to confirm the presence and identity of these specific elements or compounds. Reference to the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 provides further guidance on the scope of radioactive elements and their compounds.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or regulatory controls for importing goods under HS 2844.42 due to their radioactive nature?
Yes, due to the radioactive nature of the products under HS 2844.42, significant documentation and regulatory controls are required beyond standard customs procedures. Importers must comply with national nuclear regulatory authorities (e.g., the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in the US, Euratom in the EU, or the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) in the UK). This typically includes import licenses, permits for handling and transport of radioactive materials, safety data sheets (SDS), certificates of analysis, and compliance with international transport regulations for dangerous goods (e.g., IAEA Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material). Customs brokers must ensure all necessary permits are in place prior to import to avoid significant delays or penalties.
How do common free trade agreements (FTAs) impact the duty rates for HS 2844.42, and what preferential treatment might apply?
Given that the MFN duty rate for HS 2844.42 is already 'Free' or '0.00% ad valorem' in most major economies, the direct impact of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) on the duty rate itself is often negligible. Products originating from FTA partner countries would also enter duty-free. However, FTAs can still offer benefits by simplifying customs procedures, reducing administrative burdens, or providing more streamlined access to import licenses or regulatory approvals, depending on the specific agreement. Importers should still ensure they meet the Rules of Origin criteria to claim any potential preferential treatment, even if the duty rate is already zero. For example, under agreements like USMCA or the EU's various FTAs, while the duty rate remains 0%, the origin declaration confirms eligibility for any non-tariff benefits.