HS 284920 Of silicon
Quick Answer: HS code 2849.20, "Of silicon," specifically covers silicon carbides, which are inorganic chemical compounds of silicon and carbon. These materials are widely used in abrasives, refractories, and semiconductor manufacturing due to their extreme hardness and thermal stability. Importers and customs brokers should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. In the UK, the standard Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem. The EU applies an MFN rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) shows more granular classifications under 2849.20, with rates ranging from Free to 0.5% ad valorem, depending on the specific form or purity of the silicon carbide. Accurate classification within this subheading is crucial to ensure correct duty assessment and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2849200000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2849200000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2849201000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 284920 | — | — | — |
| 2849202000 | 0.5% | Free (17 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 2849.20?
Imports of Of silicon 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 284920 cover?
This subheading covers silicon carbides, which are chemical compounds of silicon and carbon, typically produced synthetically. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2849 specify that this heading includes carbides, whether or not chemically defined, with subheading 2849.20 specifically designating "Of silicon." These products are widely used for their extreme hardness and resistance to high temperatures, making them valuable abrasives, refractories, and components in semiconductor manufacturing. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system align with this scope, encompassing various forms such as grains, powders, and shaped articles of silicon carbide.
What falls outside HS 284920?
The following products are excluded from HS 284920, despite containing silicon or carbon. For instance, pure silicon, which is an element rather than a carbide, is classified under Heading 2804 (e.g., silicon in forms such as ingots or wafers for semiconductors). Similarly, articles made *from* silicon carbide, such as grinding wheels or refractory bricks, are generally classified according to their function or material composition in other chapters, often Chapter 68 for abrasive articles or Chapter 69 for ceramic products. Silicones, which are organosilicon polymers, are classified under Heading 3910, as they are organic chemical products, not inorganic carbides. Carbon itself, in various forms like graphite or carbon black, falls under Heading 2803.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 284920?
A common error is misclassifying articles *made of* silicon carbide as silicon carbide itself. For example, a silicon carbide abrasive disc, while composed of the material, is typically classified under Heading 6805 as "Natural or artificial abrasive powder or grain, on a base of textile material, of paper, of paperboard or of other materials, whether or not cut to shape or sewn or otherwise made up." This mistake often arises from neglecting General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 2(a), which states that articles presented unassembled or disassembled are classified as the complete article, and GRI 6, which emphasizes classification at the subheading level based on the terms of the subheadings and related notes. Another error is confusing silicon carbide with elemental silicon or silicones, which are distinct chemical entities with different applications and tariff treatments.
How should importers classify products under HS 284920?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 284920 involves a systematic approach. Importers and customs brokers should first verify that the product is indeed silicon carbide, a chemical compound of silicon and carbon, and not an article made from it or a different silicon-containing substance. This requires reviewing the product's chemical composition and manufacturing process. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2849 for detailed guidance on what constitutes a "carbide" for classification purposes. Subsequently, cross-reference the product description with the specific wording of subheading 2849.20 in the relevant national tariff schedule (e.g., HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff). If the product is an article *made of* silicon carbide, apply GRI 3(a), (b), or (c) to determine its classification based on its essential character or function, which will likely lead to a different chapter.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 2849.20 ('Of silicon') in major markets?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS 2849.20 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a 'Free' duty rate for products classified under 2849.20.00.00 (USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule). The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of '5.50% ad valorem' for this heading. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a 'Free' duty rate. 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 and may differ based on the exact product description and country of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2849.20 ('Of silicon')?
HS code 2849.20 specifically covers 'Carbides, whether or not chemically defined: Of silicon'. The primary criterion for classification under this subheading is that the product must be a silicon carbide. This includes various forms of silicon carbide (SiC), such as those used in abrasives, refractories, and semiconductors. It is crucial that the product's chemical composition is predominantly silicon carbide. Products that are mixtures or compounds where silicon carbide is not the primary or defining component may fall under other headings, such as mixtures of chemical products (e.g., Chapter 38). Importers should ensure their product's chemical analysis and intended use align with the definition of silicon carbide.
Are there any preferential duty rates or free trade agreements that commonly apply to HS 2849.20?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for HS 2849.20 depending on the country of origin and the existence of applicable free trade agreements (FTAs) or preferential trade programs. For instance, in the EU, while the MFN rate is 5.50%, imports from countries with an FTA (e.g., South Korea, Japan, Canada) may qualify for a 'Free' preferential rate, provided the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin (RoO) of that agreement. Similarly, the US applies 'Free' rates under various FTAs (e.g., USMCA, CAFTA-DR) for eligible goods. Importers must ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential treatment. Consulting the specific FTA text and the importing country's customs regulations is essential for eligibility.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 2849.20?
Standard import documentation is required for HS 2849.20, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. To ensure accurate classification and duty assessment, it is highly recommended to also provide a detailed product description, technical specifications, and a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Certificate of Analysis (CoA) confirming the chemical composition as silicon carbide. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, or self-certification by the exporter) is mandatory. For certain applications or end-uses, additional permits or licenses may be required, although this is less common for basic silicon carbide itself.