HS 284690 Other
Quick Answer: HS 284690, "Other," encompasses a diverse range of inorganic or organic compounds of rare-earth metals, yttrium, scandium, or mixtures of these metals, not elsewhere specified in HS 2846. This residual subheading covers various specialized chemical products, often used in high-tech industries, catalysts, or advanced materials. Importers and exporters should note significant duty rate variations: the UK Trade Tariff generally applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU TARIC typically levies a 3.20% ad valorem rate. The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) shows a broader range, including "Free" rates for many subheadings but also a notable 25% ad valorem for certain items, particularly those subject to Section 301 tariffs. Precise classification at the 8- or 10-digit level is crucial to determine the applicable duty and any trade restrictions.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2846906000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2846903000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2846905000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2846905040 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2846900000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2846904000 | 3.20 % | — | — |
| 2846900000 | — | — | — |
| 2846903000 | 3.20 % | — | — |
| 2846905000 | 3.20 % | — | — |
| 2846905030 | 3.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2846902005 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 28469020 | Free | — | — |
| 2846902015 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 2846902040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 2846902082 | — | — | ["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 2846.90?
Imports of Other 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?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 284690 cover?
This subheading covers rare-earth metal compounds, yttrium compounds, or scandium compounds, that are not specifically provided for in subheading 284610. Heading 2846 encompasses compounds of rare-earth metals, of yttrium, or of scandium, or mixtures of these metals. Subheading 284690, therefore, acts as a residual category for all such compounds that are not cerium compounds, which are specifically classified under 284610. This includes a wide array of chemical compounds derived from elements like lanthanum, neodymium, praseodymium, samarium, europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium, erbium, thulium, ytterbium, lutetium, yttrium, and scandium, as per the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and EU TARIC. These compounds are often used in catalysts, phosphors, magnets, and advanced ceramics.
What falls outside HS 284690?
The following products are excluded from HS 284690: compounds of cerium, which are specifically classified under subheading 284610, regardless of their chemical form or purity. Furthermore, mixtures of rare-earth metals, yttrium, or scandium, that are not in compound form, are generally classified under Chapter 28, but not necessarily under Heading 2846 if they are not compounds. For instance, pure rare-earth metals themselves, in unalloyed form, would typically fall under Heading 2805. Additionally, radioactive rare-earth elements and their compounds, such as promethium compounds, are excluded from Chapter 28 and are classified under Heading 2844, due to their radioactive nature, as per Chapter 28 Note 1(b).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 284690?
A common error is misclassifying cerium compounds under 284690 instead of the specific subheading 284610, which is reserved exclusively for them. Importers sometimes overlook the explicit carve-out for cerium compounds, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties. Another frequent mistake involves classifying mixtures of rare-earth metals that are not chemical compounds under Heading 2846, when they should be classified elsewhere, often under Heading 2805 if they are unalloyed metals. Adherence to 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, is crucial to avoid these errors, ensuring that the specific wording of 284610 for cerium compounds is respected.
How should importers classify products under HS 284690?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 284690 involves a meticulous review of the chemical composition and form of the rare-earth, yttrium, or scandium material. Importers and customs brokers must first ascertain if the product is a chemical compound. If it is, the next critical step is to determine if the compound contains cerium. If cerium is present as the primary rare-earth component in compound form, it must be classified under 284610. If the compound is derived from any other rare-earth metal (e.g., neodymium, lanthanum, europium), yttrium, or scandium, and is not radioactive, then 284690 is the appropriate classification. Always consult the WCO Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTSUS, or the EU TARIC for the most precise definitions and binding rulings, ensuring compliance with GRI 1 and any relevant Chapter 28 Notes.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What is the import duty rate for products classified under HS 2846.90 ('Other') in key markets, and are there any preferential rates available?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2846.90 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, in the United States, the MFN (Normal Trade Relations) duty rate is 3.2% ad valorem as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) 2024. For imports into the European Union, the MFN duty rate (Third Country Duty) is 0.00% according to the TARIC database. Similarly, the UK Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a duty rate of 0.00% for goods under this subheading. Preferential rates may apply under various free trade agreements (FTAs). For instance, goods originating from countries with an FTA with the US (e.g., USMCA, CAFTA-DR) may be eligible for a 'Free' duty rate upon submission of a valid certificate of origin. Importers should consult the specific country's tariff schedule and relevant trade agreement rules of origin to determine eligibility for preferential treatment.
What types of goods are classified under HS 2846.90 'Other', and what are the key classification criteria?
HS 2846 covers 'Compounds of rare-earth metals, of yttrium or of scandium or of mixtures of these metals'. Subheading 2846.90 is the 'Other' residual category, meaning it encompasses compounds of rare-earth metals, yttrium, or scandium, or mixtures thereof, that are not specifically provided for in subheading 2846.10 (Cerium compounds). Key classification criteria involve identifying the primary metallic element (rare-earth, yttrium, or scandium) and ensuring the substance is a chemical compound or a mixture of such compounds. It is crucial to verify that the product is not an alloy, metal, or an article made thereof, but rather a chemical substance. For example, compounds like lanthanum carbonate or neodymium oxide, which are not cerium compounds, would typically fall under 2846.90.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS 2846.90, especially concerning chemical identity and origin?
Standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. For chemical products under HS 2846.90, additional documentation is often critical for customs clearance and regulatory compliance. This may include a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS), a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) detailing the chemical composition and purity, and potentially a technical data sheet. These documents help customs verify the exact nature of the compound for accurate classification. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate) is mandatory to substantiate the originating status of the goods.
Are there any specific trade agreements that offer significant duty reductions or 'Free' rates for HS 2846.90, and what are the implications for importers?
Yes, numerous trade agreements can offer duty reductions or 'Free' rates for HS 2846.90. For US imports, agreements such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), and various other bilateral FTAs (e.g., with Australia, Korea, Singapore) typically grant duty-free treatment if the goods meet the respective agreement's rules of origin. Similarly, for EU imports, the extensive network of EU FTAs (e.g., with Japan, Canada, UK, Vietnam) can provide preferential 'Free' rates. The implication for importers is a significant cost saving on customs duties. However, importers must ensure strict compliance with the rules of origin, which often require specific regional value content or change in tariff classification criteria, and must possess the correct origin documentation to claim these benefits.
Could HS 2846.90 be subject to any specific import restrictions, licensing requirements, or anti-dumping/countervailing duties (AD/CVD)?
While HS 2846.90 generally covers chemical compounds not typically associated with direct security or health risks requiring specific import licenses for all countries, importers should always verify national regulations. Some rare-earth compounds might be subject to specific end-use controls if they are precursors to controlled substances or used in sensitive technologies. For example, in the US, certain rare-earth materials could be relevant to defense or critical technology sectors, potentially triggering review by agencies like the Department of Commerce (Bureau of Industry and Security). Furthermore, importers must be vigilant for potential Anti-Dumping (AD) or Countervailing Duty (CVD) orders. While no current AD/CVD orders are broadly applied to all products under 2846.90, such duties are product and country-specific and can be imposed or revised. Importers should regularly check the official trade remedy websites (e.g., US Department of Commerce, EU Commission Trade Defence) for any active AD/CVD measures that might apply to their specific product and country of origin.